Low-cost reversible tandem lens mesoscope for brain imaging in rodents.

Significance: The development of imaging systems that are cost-efficient and modular is essential for modern neuroscience research.

Aim: In the current study, we designed, developed, and characterized a low-cost reversible tandem lens mesoscope for brain imaging in rodents.

Approach: Using readily available components, we assembled a robust imaging system that is highly efficient and cost-effective.

Shankopathies in the Developing Brain in Autism Spectrum Disorders.

The SHANK family of proteins play critical structural and functional roles in the postsynaptic density (PSD) at excitatory glutamatergic synapses. Through their multidomain structure they form a structural platform across the PSD for protein-protein interactions, as well as recruiting protein complexes to strengthen excitatory synaptic transmission. Mutations in reflect their importance to synapse development and plasticity.

Action potential and calcium dependence of tonic somatodendritic dopamine release in the Substantia Nigra pars compacta.

Despite the importance of somatodendritic dopamine (DA) release in the Substantia Nigra pars compacta (SNc), its mechanism remains poorly understood. Using a novel approach combining fast-scan controlled-adsorption voltammetry (FSCAV) and single-unit electrophysiology, we have investigated the mechanism of somatodendritic release by directly correlating basal (non-stimulated) extracellular DA concentration ([DA] ), with pharmacologically-induced changes of firing of nigral dopaminergic neurons in rat brain slices. FSCAV measurements indicated that basal [DA] in the SNc was 40.