Comparison of GCaMP3 and GCaMP6f for studying astrocyte Ca2+ dynamics in the awake mouse brain

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0181113
• Publication Date: 2017-07-24T17:38:05Z
• Authors: Liang Ye; Mateen A. Haroon; Angelica Salinas; Martin Paukert
• Keywords: Dynamics; Calcium imaging

In recent years it has become increasingly clear that astrocytes play a much more active role in neural processes than the traditional view of them as supporting cells suggests. Although not electrically excitable, exhibit diverse Ca2+ dynamics across spatial and temporal scales, or less dependent on animal's behavioral state. range from global elevations lasting multiple seconds encompassing soma up to finest processes, short restricted so-called microdomains within fine processes. Investigations astrocyte have particularly benefitted development Genetically-Encoded Calcium Indicators (GECIs). GECI expression can be achieved non-invasively cell type-specific manner genetically targeted subcellular domains. The GCaMP family, group GECIs derived green fluorescent protein, experienced some fastest advancements during past decade. As consequence we are now facing challenge needing compare published data obtained with different versions GECIs. With intention provide guidance, here compared scales awake transgenic mice expressing either well-established GCaMP3, popular GCaMP6f, specifically astrocytes. We found locomotion-induced cortical displayed only minor kinetic differences their apparent dynamic ranges for sensing were different. contrast, waves microdomain transients readily detectable GCaMP6f. Our findings suggest state-dependent responses studied GCaMP3 GCaMP6f whereas latter is appropriate studies spatially weak fast dynamics.