Observation de neurones de cortex embryonnaire de cerveau de rat en microscopie de fluorescence

Observation of embryonic cortical neurons from the brain of a rat using a fluorescence microscope. Research scientists observe the mitochondria (cell energy centres) to determine their number, size and distribution in the various neuronal compartments (dendrites, axons and synapses). The mitochondria form a more or less interconnected network. Their size varies depending on the neuronal compartment and the physiological and pathological context. For example, in dominant optic atrophy, a mitochondrial disease, their size is altered as well as their distribution up to the synapses. In neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, on the other hand, the morphology and functioning of the mitochondria are defective. Using different treatments adapted to the pathology, research scientists aim to mitigate neuronal malfunctions by restoring a functional mitochondrial system.