Work

Protocol for semiautomated analysis of sensory neuronal innervation of the mouse footpad skin

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Here, we present a protocol for staining murine skin innervation by either a pan-axonal marker or a genetic tracer of sensory neuron subtypes using floating sections. We also describe steps for using a new MATLAB-based semiautomated routine that facilitates the quantification of innervation density. This protocol can also be applied to other organs, such as the mouse’s spinal cord and tongue. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Dey et al. 1 • Steps for dissection and fixation of the mouse footpad • Steps for staining of footpad floating sections • Quantification of innervation by an algorithm in a user-defined cross-sectional area Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics. Here, we present a protocol for staining of murine skin innervation by either a pan-axonal marker or a genetic tracer of sensory neuron subtypes using floating sections. We also describe steps for using a new MATLAB-based semiautomated routine that facilitates the quantification of innervation density. This protocol can also be applied to other organs, such as the mouse’s spinal cord and tongue.

Source: STAR Protocols

DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2024.103312

Authors: Swagata Dey, Andrew Kovalenko, Avraham Yaron

Institution: Weizmann Institute of Science

Language: English

Topic: Cell Image Analysis Techniques

Subfield: Biophysics

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,500

Funders: Minerva Foundation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel Science Foundation