Madelynn Isbrecht
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): Dawen Cai
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Cell and Developmental Biology; Biophysics; Neuroscience Graduate Program / Medicine
Program:
Authors: Madelynn Isbrecht, Mou-Chi Cheng
Session: Session 2: 10:00 am – 10:50 am
Poster: 44
Abstract
The brain’s neurons demonstrate an astonishing ability to extend their processes across millimeters, establishing connections with other neurons. However, exploring these intricate networks requires precise fluorescent labeling and imaging of neurons within brain tissue. A challenge arises in the clearing process due to the complex formalin fixation of the human brain samples. The primary goal of this project is to substantially enhance the clearing process of human tissue. Success in this endeavor has the potential to transform fluorescence imaging capabilities, facilitating the visualization and analysis of neuronal networks at an unprecedented scale. By integrating these innovations with automated microscopy and cutting-edge imaging processing tools, unparalleled precision in tracing and reconstructing neuronal networks within the brain can be achieved. Our study on human tissue clearing involves embedding samples in an enhanced acrylamide-based hydrogel matrix to elevate the expansion factor, which can further assist in both the clearing and immunostaining processes. Proteins in the gelled sample are cross-linked to the gel matrix, followed by an enzymatic-assisted delipidation process enhanced with detergents such as bile salt and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). Preserving cerebral structures in their entirety allows for a more thorough and precise examination using immunohistochemistry microscopy. Integration of innovative tissue clearing techniques with automated microscopy enables researchers to gain profound insights into brain function and neurological disorders.
