Techniques - Functional architecture of neural circuits - IIT

[Techniques] - Banner

[Techniques] - Introduction

The lab combines methods to bridge function, connectivity, and gene expression in neural circuits in vivo, using the mouse as a model system

Our toolkit includes:

[Techniques] - List (row 01)

Large-scale two-photon calcium imaging

We record simultaneously the activity of thousands of individual neurons, across layers or cortical areas, using large-scale, volumetric two-photon calcium imaging.

Trans-synaptic connectivity tracing

We are one of the few labs that can visualise, in vivo, the ensemble of synaptic patterns individual neurons of choice using trans-synaptic viral tracers.

Single cell electroporation

We introduce new DNA and modify gene expression in single neurons in vivo with single-cell electroporation.

[Techniques] - List (row 02)

Dendritic glutamate and calcium imaging

We simultaneously image presynaptic neurotransmitter release and post-synaptic calcium responses on single dendrites.

Photoablation and dendritic pruning

We selectively eliminate individual neurons or prune single dendrites with laser ablation.

Spatial transcriptomics

We relate functional and anatomical neuronal diversity to gene expression by profiling neurons recorded in vivo with spatial transcriptomics.

[Techniques] - List (row 03)

Wide-field calcium and blood-flow imaging

We map brain areas and measure mesoscale patterns of activity with wide-field imaging of activity reporters or blood flow.

High-density electrophysiology and optogenetics

We use high-density micro-electrode arrays (e.g. Neuropixels probes) to record spikes at neuronal somas and dendrites with high temporal precision in vivo. (GIF by G. Mastroberardino)

Virtual reality and naturalistic behaviours

Keep an eye out! We are developing new behavioural paradigms to study how animal’s adaptively pursuit visual targets and stabilise visual perception during voluntary movements.