Capturing activated neurons and synapses

Abstract

An important yet very challenging goal of neuroscience is to understand how brain activity drives cognition and behavior. Many useful tools have been developed to study neurons and synapses, the fundamental units of brain activity. Here, we review recently developed methods to visualize and manipulate active neurons and synapses, providing useful and compelling information about functional neuronal circuitry.

Keywords: Active synapse; Ca(2+); Cell ensemble; Genetic tools; IEG expression; Light.