An interactive framework for whole-brain maps at cellular resolution

Nat Neurosci. 2018 Jan;21(1):139-149. doi: 10.1038/s41593-017-0027-7. Epub 2017 Dec 4.

Abstract

To deconstruct the architecture and function of brain circuits, it is necessary to generate maps of neuronal connectivity and activity on a whole-brain scale. New methods now enable large-scale mapping of the mouse brain at cellular and subcellular resolution. We developed a framework to automatically annotate, analyze, visualize and easily share whole-brain data at cellular resolution, based on a scale-invariant, interactive mouse brain atlas. This framework enables connectivity and mapping projects in individual laboratories and across imaging platforms, as well as multiplexed quantitative information on the molecular identity of single neurons. As a proof of concept, we generated a comparative connectivity map of five major neuron types in the corticostriatal circuit, as well as an activity-based map to identify hubs mediating the behavioral effects of cocaine. Thus, this computational framework provides the necessary tools to generate brain maps that integrate data from connectivity, neuron identity and function.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Video-Audio Media

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain / cytology*
  • Brain Mapping*
  • Gene Expression Regulation / genetics
  • Gene Expression Regulation / physiology
  • Genes, Immediate-Early / physiology
  • Glutamate Decarboxylase / metabolism
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins / genetics
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins / metabolism
  • LIM-Homeodomain Proteins / genetics
  • LIM-Homeodomain Proteins / metabolism
  • Male
  • Mice, Transgenic
  • Motor Activity
  • Nerve Net / physiology*
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins / genetics
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins / metabolism
  • Neural Pathways / physiology*
  • Neurons / physiology*
  • Neuropeptide Y / metabolism
  • Parvalbumins / metabolism
  • Transcription Factors / genetics
  • Transcription Factors / metabolism

Substances

  • LHX6 protein, mouse
  • LIM-Homeodomain Proteins
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins
  • Neuropeptide Y
  • Parvalbumins
  • Transcription Factors
  • enhanced green fluorescent protein
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins
  • Glutamate Decarboxylase
  • glutamate decarboxylase 2