What Histological Techniques are Used to Study Alpha Synuclein?

Several histological techniques are employed to study alpha synuclein, including:

Immunohistochemistry (IHC): This technique uses antibodies specific to alpha synuclein to detect its presence in tissue sections. It is particularly useful for identifying alpha synuclein aggregates in brain tissues.
Western Blotting: This method is used to detect alpha synuclein in tissue homogenates or cell lysates. It provides information on the protein's expression levels and the presence of different forms, including monomers, oligomers, and aggregates.
Electron Microscopy: This high-resolution technique allows for the visualization of alpha synuclein fibrils and aggregates at the ultrastructural level.
Fluorescence Microscopy: When combined with fluorescently labeled antibodies, this technique enables the observation of alpha synuclein distribution within cells and tissues.
Confocal Microscopy: This advanced form of fluorescence microscopy provides detailed, three-dimensional images of alpha synuclein localization and aggregation in tissues.