Histologists employ a variety of techniques to study neuronal development at the cellular and molecular levels. These include:
Immunohistochemistry This technique uses antibodies to detect specific proteins within tissue sections. It is commonly used to identify markers of neuronal differentiation, such as MAP2 and NeuN.
In Situ Hybridization In situ hybridization allows for the localization of specific mRNA molecules within tissue sections, providing insights into gene expression patterns during neuronal development.
Electron Microscopy Electron microscopy provides high-resolution images of neuronal structures, such as synapses and axonal growth cones, allowing for detailed examination of the morphological changes that occur during development.
Live Imaging Live imaging techniques, such as confocal and two-photon microscopy, enable the observation of dynamic processes, such as neuronal migration and synaptogenesis, in real-time.
