Intracerebroventricular Viral Injection of the Neonatal Mouse Brain for Persistent and Widespread Neuronal Transduction

作者： Ji-Yoen Kim*1, Stacy D. Grunke*1, Yona Levites2, Todd E. Golde2, Joanna L. Jankowsky1,3 1Department of Neuroscience,Baylor College of Medicine, 2Department of Neuroscience, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease,University of Florida, 3Department of Neurology and Department of Neurosurgery,Baylor College of Medicine

简介：

Overview

This article demonstrates a technique for widespread neuronal transduction through intraventricular injection of adeno-associated virus into the neonatal mouse brain. This method allows for rapid and easy attainment of lifelong expression of virally-delivered transgenes.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

• Neuroscience
• Gene Therapy
• Neurobiology

Background

• Viral transduction is a method used to deliver genes into cells.
• Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is commonly used for gene delivery in neuroscience.
• Neonatal mice are often used as models for studying brain development.
• Accurate targeting of brain regions is crucial for effective transduction.

Purpose of Study

• To develop a reliable method for targeting the lateral ventricles in neonatal mice.
• To achieve widespread expression of transgenes in the brain.
• To facilitate future studies on gene function and neural circuitry.

Methods Used

• Cryo-anesthetization of newborn pups.
• Identification of the injection site for targeting the lateral ventricles.
• Insertion of a needle to the correct depth for virus infusion.
• Infusion of up to two microliters of virus solution into each lateral ventricle.

Main Results

• Successful transduction of neurons throughout the brain.
• Demonstration of transgene expression patterns using fluorescent tags.
• Identification of challenges faced by beginners in targeting the lateral ventricles.
• Establishment of a protocol for future applications in neuroscience research.

Conclusions

• The intraventricular injection method is effective for neuronal transduction.
• This technique can be used to study gene function in the brain.
• Further refinement of targeting techniques may improve outcomes for researchers.

Frequently Asked Questions