Fluorescent Dye to Highlight Brain Activity

When studying the components, characteristics, and processes of the brain scientists use many different methods such as gold nanoparticle arrays and neurochips. At the San Diego School of Medicine, an new and improved fast-acting fluorescent dye has been developed.

This dye can highlight electrical activity in the membranes and gives big signals while not altering the behavior of the neurons. This can be viewed by a high speed camera. There is no lag time between the optical signal and the electrodes. This dye is very adaptable and durable, with this dye the neuronal cells can take in the dye at a membrane level in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. This dye works using the photo-induced electron transfer from an electron donor.

The lead investigator, Dr. Roger Tsien, is a 2008 Nobel prize winner for his work with green fluorescent protein. He has been working on a directly responsive, sensitive and accurate method of screen membrane voltage since he was in graduate school in 1972. Now this quick triggered dye has improved greatly on the slower and less responsive methods of the past. Hopefully this product will be used in the near future.

http://www.biomedicalblog.com/real-time-neuronal-activity-highlighted-by-new-fluorescent-dye/145800/