Fluorescence Imaging of Calcium Dynamics at Neuromuscular Junctions in the Diaphragm of a Transgenic Mouse

Source: Heredia, D. J., et. al. Ex Vivo Imaging of Cell-specific Calcium Signaling at the Tripartite Synapse of the Mouse Diaphragm. J. Vis. Exp. (2018) This video demonstrates fluorescence imaging of calcium dynamics at neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) in a transgenic mouse expressing genetically encoded calcium indicators. A NJM is identified by fluorescently tagged acetylcholine receptors in the diaphragm with the phrenic nerve. An image splitter is used to visualize multiple signals simultaneously. An electrical stimulus is delivered, and the change in fluorescence at the NMJ in response to calcium influx is recorded.