Advanced technology development for analyzing molecular dynamics and structure in synapse formation

2015 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 26640039
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Challenging Exploratory Research
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Neurochemistry/Neuropharmacology
• Research Institution: Shinshu University
• Principal Investigator: UEMURA Takeshi 信州大学, 学術研究院医学系, 准教授 (00372368)
• Co-Investigator(Renkei-kenkyūsha): SATO Chikara 独立行政法人産業技術総合研究所, 脳神経情報研究部門, 研究グループ長 (00357146)
• Project Period (FY): 2014-04-01 – 2016-03-31
• Keywords: 脳・神経 / 神経科学 / シナプス

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Elucidation of synapse formation process is essential for understanding synaptic dysfunction in neurodevelopmental disorders. Atmospheric scanning electron microscope (ASEM) is an electron microscope which was developed recently to directly observe subcellular structures and organelles through a silicon nitride (SiN) film under atmospheric pressure. In this study, we cultured neurons on poly-L-lysine and laminin coated ASEM dish with the SiN film. Presynaptic differentiation was induced by extracellular domain of synapse organizer-coated magnetic beads and analyzed by fluoresence microscope and ASEM. Fluorescence signals for presynaptic proteins were accumulated on the beads particularly concentrated at the site of contact with axon. Subsequent ASEM analysis revealed that presynaptic protein, presumably of an indistinguishable neurite branch, surrounded each beads. Thus, ASEM is a potentially useful tool for analysis of molecular localization and fine structure of synapse.

Free Research Field

分子神経生物学