Direct Imaging of Modulatory Neurotransmitters Using Synthetic Nanosensors to Understand and Treat Parkinson's Disease

ABSTRACT

Nanosensors for the optical detection of dopamine in brain slice has been validated in wildtype C57/C6 mice as well as a Parkinson's model mouse. Using nanosensors, endogenous dopamine release in striatal brain slice is triggered by electrical stimulation and quantified using microscopy. We have established the workflow for this procedure and have prepared a population of Parkinson's and wildtype mice to image in the coming quarter. We have confirmed that the method can quantitatively distinguish dopamine release between subregions of the striatum, a critical step in confirming the method for use in Parkinson's studies. COVID-19 shutdowns stalled research starting in Mar. Research facilities are reopening and the project is expected to resume this quarter.