Basic Neurobiology Techniques

This volume explores the latest techniques and improved methods used to study important neurobiological and associated neuropathological conditions. Chapters cover topics such as the application of semiconductor quantum dots as photostable fluorophores used for labeling and tracking; GCaMP6 transcranial imaging to monitor neural activity; the patch-clamping technique allowing simultaneous monitoring of membrane currents and optical signals; and quantifying behavioral dysfunction caused by traumatic brain injury (TBI). In Neuromethods series style, chapters include the kind of detail and key advice from the specialists needed to get successful results in your laboratory. Cutting-edge and practical, Basic Neurobiology Techniques is a valuable resource for novel and expert researchers interested in expanding their knowledge of this developing field. .

Modern neuroscience research is inherently multidisciplinary, with a wide variety of cutting edge new techniques to explore multiple levels of investigation. This Third Edition of Guide to Research Techniques in Neuroscience provides a comprehensive overview of classical and cutting edge methods including their utility, limitations, and how data are presented in the literature. This book can be used as an introduction to neuroscience techniques for anyone new to the field or as a reference for any neuroscientist while reading papers or attending talks. Nearly 200 updated full-color illustrations to clearly convey the theory and practice of neuroscience methods Expands on techniques from previous editions and covers many new techniques including in vivo calcium imaging, fiber photometry, RNA-Seq, brain spheroids, CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, and more Clear, straightforward explanations of each technique for anyone new to the field A broad scope of methods, from noninvasive brain imaging in human subjects, to electrophysiology in animal models, to recombinant DNA technology in test tubes, to transfection of neurons in cell culture Detailed recommendations on where to find protocols and other resources for specific techniques "Walk-through" boxes that guide readers through experiments step-by-step

Current Laboratory Methods in Neuroscience Research is a research manual for both students and seasoned researchers. It focuses on commonly-used techniques employed in neuroscience research, presented in a simple, step-by-step manner for laboratory use. The manual also offers a “blueprint” for bench-to-bedside research designed to facilitate multidisciplinary neuroscience pursuits. Sections include coverage of neurohistological techniques, in vitro preparations, leukocyte isolation and application in neuroscience, standard laboratory nucleic acid and protein detections, nanomedicine, bioimaging, neuroelectrophysiology, immunohistochemistry and autoradiography, analysis of gene expression, and animal models.

The cutting-edge techniques detailed here include those that are particularly popular in multidisciplinary neuroscience research. There are readily reproducible methods for establishing neural cell cultures, measuring enzymes and their inhibitors, and using quantitative autoradiography to study monoamine uptake sites and receptors in the brain. Additional methods cover the use of flow cytometry to study developmental neurobiology, applications of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to human brain metabolism, and the study of drug metabolism. Together with its companion volumes, In Vivo Neuromethods and In Vitro Neurochemical Techniques, all three cutting-edge works will prove exceptionally useful to those basic and clinical neuroscientists who want to expand the range of their current research or develop competence in complementary methods.

This volume is essential reading for anyone wishing to understand the recent explosion of experimental tools in neuroscience that now make it possible to manipulate, record, and understand neuronal activity within the intact brain, and which are helping us learn how the many neurons that comprise a network act together to control behavior. Leaders in the field discuss the latest developments in optogenetics, functional imaging, circuit mapping, and the application of these tools to complex biological problems.

An overview of the techniques used in modern neuroscience research with the emphasis on showing how different techniques can optimally be combined in the study of problems that arise at some levels of nervous system organization. This is essentially a working tool for the scientist in the laboratory and clinic, providing detailed step-by-step protocols with tips and recommendations. Most chapters and protocols are organized such that they can be used independently, while cross-references between the chapters, a glossary, a list of suppliers and appendices provide further help.

Significant advances in brain research have been made, but investigators who face the resulting explosion of data need new methods to integrate the pieces of the "brain puzzle." Based on the expertise of more than 100 neuroscientists and computer specialists, this new volume examines how computer technology can meet that need. Featuring outstanding color photography, the book presents an overview of the complexity of brain research, which covers the spectrum from human behavior to genetic mechanisms. Advances in vision, substance abuse, pain, and schizophrenia are highlighted. The committee explores the potential benefits of computer graphics, database systems, and communications networks in neuroscience and reviews the available technology. Recommendations center on a proposed Brain Mapping Initiative, with an agenda for implementation and a look at issues such as privacy and accessibility.

Rapid advances in knowledge have led to an increasing interest in neuro biology over the last several years. These advances have been made possible, at least in part, by the use of increasingly sophisticated methodology. Furthermore, research in the most rapidly advancing areas is essentially multidisciplinary and is characterized by contributions from many investi gators employing a variety of techniques. While a grasp of fundamental neurobiological concepts is an obvious prerequisite for those who wish to follow or participate in this field, critical awareness and evaluation of neurobiological research also requires an understanding of sophisticated methodologies. The objective of Methods in Neurobiology is the development of such critical abilities. The reader is exposed to the basic concepts, principles, and instrumentation of key methodologies, and the application of each meth odology is placed in the special context of neurobiological research. The reader will gain familiarity with the terminology and procedures of each method and the ability to evaluate results in light of the particular features of neurobiological preparations and applications.