Neuronal co-culture imaging

Neurite dynamics play a fundamental role in the development and function of the nervous system. Formation and maintenance of synaptic networks are necessary for nervous system function and plasticity through continuous changes in the fine structure of neurons. Neurite dynamics can be altered in disease states or following exposure to neurotoxic agents providing a rationale for understanding and quantifying this process.

The IncuCyte ZOOM live-cell imaging platform, combined with NeuroTrack software and the NeuroLight Red labeling reagent, provides a means to image neurons in co-culture with astrocytes and quantitate changes in neurite length of living cultures from days to weeks. This approach provides a sensitive method to detect pharmacological manipulations that alter neurite dynamics, including processes such as elongation and retraction. NeuroLight Red can be used with multiple neuronal types providing flexibility in assay design. The NeuroPrime Cell Kit, in conjunction with the NeuroTrack software module, also provides a ready to use and optimized solution for measuring kinetic changes in neurite length using primary neurons. The imaging strategy allows all quantitative data to be validated by direct comparison with morphological changes in the images, allowing a uniquely thorough analysis in a single assay.