Two-photon imaging of neural activity in awake, head-fixed mice

Citation:
Wienisch, M, Blauvelt D, Sato TF, Murthy VN.  2011.  Two-photon imaging of neural activity in awake, head-fixed mice. (in press). Neuronal Network Analysis: Humana Press

Abstract:

Two-photon microscopy has become an invaluable tool for visualizing the activity of neuronal populations at cellular resolution in vivo. Imaging typically requires restraining the head of the animal underneath the objective of a dedicated optical setup and experiments are therefore often performed under anesthesia. Here we describe a method that allows imaging in awake mice with minimal motion artifacts and without the need for extensive training of the animal. We detail the necessary surgical procedures to chronically implant a small, lightweight head-plate and to create a clear window for imaging. The design of a simple apparatus capable of stably accommodating the head-plate while the mouse is positioned on a wheel with spring suspension is presented. When used in combination with a multiphoton microscope, this approach greatly facilitates optical recordings in non-anesthetized animals and opens the door to many projects that can bridge the gap between neural activity and behavior.