Approaches & Techniques

Two-photon microscopy: single-color

We use two-photon (2P) microscopy to image fluorescent sensors (such as calcium indicators shown here) allowing us to track astrocyte (green) or neuron (magenta) dynamics in awake mice during sensory processing and behavior.

Two-photon microscopy: dual-color

We also combine green- and red-shifted indicators to simultaneously measure astrocyte (green) and neuron (magenta) activity at both the network and synaptic scales.

Optogenetics

We combine single- and dual-color 2P microscopy with optogenetic actuators that allow us to drive or suppress neuronal activity while quantifying the resulting effects on astrocyte-neuron networks. Here, we are driving astrocyte calcium activity (green) by optogenetic stimulation of norepinephrine release while simultaneously imaging neuronal calcium activity (magenta).

Behavior

We also combine 2P microscopy and optogenetics with simultaneous measurement of behavioral variables such as facial movements and consummatory behavior.