Guidance and Outgrowth Assays for Embryonic Thalamic Axons

Abstract

We have provided a detailed protocol for the preparation of interface hippocampal slice cultures from young mice or rats and have included modifications of the protocol necessary for culturing electrophysiologically viable slices from older animals. In addition to providing key points for successful measurements of synaptic function using electrophysiology, we have discussed approaches for studying models of neurological disease with hippocampal slice cultures. Future combination of the unique types of measurements afforded in slice cultures combined with the use of transgenic animals, exogenous reagent application, viral transfection, and the option to use slices from animals of different ages, promise to provide continued advances in understanding neural network phenotypes that may underlie neurological disease.