Live Cell Imaging: Kinetic Quantification of Neurite Dynamics in Mono-cultures and Co-cultures
Authors: Jasmine Trigg, John Rauch, Libby Oupicka, Nevine Holtz, Eric Endsley, Timothy Dale
Last updated: 20 January 2023
Overview
Neurite dynamics play a fundamental role in the development and function of the nervous system. Formation and maintenance of synaptic networks are necessary for healthy brain function and plasticity and occurs through continuous changes in the fine structure of neurons.
Monitoring neuronal morphology in long-term in vitro cell cultures is critical for characterization and evaluation of disease models and to understand neuronal development.
Ideally, approaches to track neurite dynamics would allow continuous automated measurements of structural parameters, including neurite length and number of branch points. These methods should be non-perturbing and enable quantification of neurons in mono- or co-culture with glia.
- Document type: Application Note
- Page count: 8
- Read time: 10 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Live-cell imaging to kinetically quantify neurite outgrowth
- Measuring neuronal parameters in mono-cultures
- Quantifying neuronal outgrowth in co-cultures
- Importance of astroglia in iPSC differentiation
- Incucyte® Neurotrack Analysis Software Module
Figure 1. Quick Guide of Neurite Outgrowth Assay Workflow for Both Mono-culture and Co-culture Models.
