Neurotoxicity Imaging Analysis

Neurotoxicity Imaging Analysis

Neurotoxicity is the damage to nervous system structure or function caused by foreign chemical, biological or physical agents. This can destroy or even kill neurons, which are key cells in the brain and other parts of the nervous system to transmit and process signals. This neurotoxicity is also the main cause of many neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Neurotoxicity can be assessed by assessing neuronal cytotoxicity, astrocyte activation and calcium signal regulation. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can be induced to culture and display mature neurons in large quantities. It can be used to quickly screen the drugs that cause neuronal toxicity, so as to greatly reduce the cost of preclinical research and related animal experiments.

Chemical-induced decreases in synaptogenesis. Figure 1. Chemical-induced decreases in synaptogenesis. (Harrill J, et al. 2011).

Neurotoxicity Imaging Analysis

Synaptogenesis is a critical process in nervous system development whereby neurons establish specialized contact sites which facilitate neurotransmission. CD BioSciences can provide you with one-stop neurotoxicity imaging analysis services. We measure the length of nerve synapses to characterize the positive or negative effects of the test drugs. IPSC-derived neuronal cells can form neuronal networks in 96 or 384-well plates within 3-5 days, and then stimulate them with toxic drugs for 48-72 hours. After the neural network is labeled with αIA- or βIII-tubulin, images can be acquired with high-content imaging system.

Analysis method High-content imaging
Cell types available Neuronal monolayer format
IPSC derived neural organoid
Custom models available on request
Cell model 3D cell models (e.g., tumor spheroids, organoids, etc.)
or adherent monolayer / cell suspension
Markers Fixable dead cell probe, DAPI, Ca2+ probe
Other markers available on request
Sample requirements 50µL of 20 mM solution or equivalent amount of solid

Neurotoxicity Imaging Analysis Workflow

We evaluate mechanical neurotoxicity in vitro by using cultured neuron models or 3D neuronal organoids in a traditional monolayer analysis format. The analysis steps are as follows.

Step 1

For 3D cell models, culture them to a diameter of about 500 μm. The adherent monolayer is cultivated to confluence.

Step 2

Treat with test compound.

Step 3

After 24 hours, the cells were labeled with fixed dead cell probe and Ca2+ probe, and immunolabeled with markers.

Step 4

High content imaging on the well plate.

Step 5

Image analysis to quantify the total number of cells, the total number of dead cells, the total number of astrocytes, astrocyte activation and calcium signal changes.

Delivery

Dose-response curves
Total number of cells
Total number of dead cells
Alterations to calcium signaling
AC50 values
Total number of astrocytes
Astrocyte activation
Viability percentage for each test concentration

Our Advantages

  • Various markers available on customers’ requirements
  • Multiple types of data can be provided
  • Functional data-accurate, precise and reproducible
  • Mature and reliable technology platform
  • Experienced scientists provide experimental consultation

CD BioSciences has an experienced team and advanced imaging equipment. The entire process of neurotoxicity imaging analysis is operated by professional technicians to ensure the accuracy of the experiment. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us.

Reference
  1. Harrill J, Robinette B, Mundy W. Use of high content image analysis to detect chemical-induced changes in synaptogenesis in vitro [J]. Toxicology in Vitro, 2011, 25(1):368-387.

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Please note: Our services can only be used for research purposes. Do not use in diagnostic or therapeutic procedures!

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