Neurovascular coupling in the deep brain using confocal fiber-optic endomicroscopy

Abstract

Developing fast functional imaging approaches of subcortical structures is essential to make progress in our understanding of brain function and diseases. Positron emission tomography and functional magnetic resonance imaging have been used to improve our understanding of brain function and integration of neuronal activity between deeper structures and the superficial cortex but limitations remain associated with signal interpretation. This work describes the design and utilization of confocal microendoscopy techniques to image brain structures involved in visual processing, either deep or on the surface of the cortex. Also, multiple examples using different experimental approaches are described.