Engineering genetically encoded fluorescent indicators for imaging of neuronal activity: Progress and prospects

Abstract

Genetically encoded fluorescent indicators have transformed the way neuroscientists record neuronal activities and interrogate the nervous system in vivo. In this review, we discuss recent advances and new additions to the toolkit of indicators for calcium ion entry, membrane voltage change, neurotransmitter release, and other neuronal molecular processes. We highlight new engineering approaches for indicator design and development, and identify key areas for future improvement. From molecular tool developers' perspective, we aim to provide practical information for neuroscientists to evaluate and choose the most appropriate indicators for enabling new insights into brain function.

Keywords: Calcium ion; Fluorescence imaging; Genetically encoded indicators; Membrane voltage; Neuronal activity; Neurotransmitters.