Protocol for adeno-associated virus-mediated optogenetic activation of olfactory output neurons in neonatal mice

STAR Protoc. 2024 Sep 20;5(3):103164. doi: 10.1016/j.xpro.2024.103164. Epub 2024 Jul 4.

Abstract

Optogenetic manipulation has proven a powerful tool for investigating the mechanisms underlying the function of neuronal networks, but implementing the technique on mammals during early development remains challenging. Here, we present a comprehensive workflow to specifically manipulate mitral/tufted cells (M/TCs), the output neurons in the olfactory circuit, mediated by adeno-associated virus (AAV) transduction and light stimulation in neonatal mice and monitor neuronal and network activity with in vivo electrophysiology. This method represents an efficient approach to elucidate functional brain development. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Chen et al.1,2,3.

Keywords: biophysics; developmental biology; neuroscience; systems biology.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Animals, Newborn*
  • Dependovirus* / genetics
  • Mice
  • Neurons / metabolism
  • Neurons / physiology
  • Olfactory Bulb / cytology
  • Olfactory Bulb / physiology
  • Optogenetics* / methods