This funding, from the « Rotary-Espoir en Tête » call for projects, will facilitate the acquisition of a miniaturized two-photon microscopy system (Inscopix nVista 2P). Weighing only 2.2 g, this portable microscope attaches to the animal's head, offering cellular and subcellular resolution to observe brain activity in freely moving subjects.
Unlike conventional miniscopes, this portable microscope can simultaneously record the activity of hundreds of neurons, as well as axons, dendrites, glial cells, and small blood vessels, providing enhanced resolution and true depth imaging. It will be shared among teams from IMN, IINS, INCIA, and their partners at Bordeaux Neurocampus.
This research aims to deepen the understanding of several major pathologies, including Parkinson's disease, addictions, anxiety disorders, depression, and chronic pain. By linking brain activity, behavior, and physiological functions in the same animal, this technology opens new avenues for understanding the brain mechanisms underlying these diseases and identifying novel therapeutic targets.
The « Espoir en tête » initiative, launched in 2005 by the Rotary Clubs of France, mobilizes funds for fundamental brain research. Annual film screenings are held to support this cause, with all proceeds directly benefiting brain research through the Foundation for Brain Research.
