Mapping Neuronal Connectivity with Laser Photostimulation & Calcium Imaging

Abstract

One of the most elusive goals in modern neuroscience is to determine how neurons in the brain are connected – a connectivity map is essential for understanding how the brain works. To address this goal, many methods have been established, each with their own limitations. Here, by combining laser photostimulation and calcium imaging, we have developed a novel technique to allow functional mapping of connections made by a large population of cultured neurons. Using these connectivity maps, we were able to investigate properties of a developing neuronal network.