This article details a method for imaging transplanted human neural progenitor cells (NPCs) in an immunodeficient mouse model. The technique utilizes bioluminescence to confirm successful cell transplantation into the brain.
Begin with an immunodeficient mouse injected with genetically modified human neural progenitor cells, or NPCs, into its brain.
These cells express luciferase, a light-producing enzyme.
Inject luciferin, the substrate for luciferase, intraperitoneally into the mouse.
Anesthetize the mouse, then apply ophthalmic lubricant to its eyes to prevent drying and shave its head for imaging.
Position the mouse in a prone position inside an imaging chamber with preset conditions for imaging.
Luciferin circulates in the bloodstream and enters the brain tissue by passing through endothelial cells, reaching the transplanted NPCs.
Inside the cells, luciferin reacts with luciferase and produces bioluminescent light.
The imaging system captures these bioluminescent signals emitted from the site of NPC transplantation.
These bioluminescent signals confirm the successful transplantation of the human NPCs into the mouse brain.
Inject the luciferin intraperitoneally, and after five minutes anesthetize animals with a continuous isoflurane supply. Shave the sedated animals on the head region using a conventional hair shaver. Place the animal in the imaging chamber, and start imaging 15 minutes after the luciferin injection by clicking Acquire in the control panel.
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