Stanford researchers have developed a new technique that
allows them to monitor the tiny branches of neurons in a live brain for months
at a time. Neuroscientists will now be able to monitor the microscopic changes
that occur over the course of progressive brain disease.
(January 14, 2011) Travel
just one millimeter inside the brain and you'll be stepping into the dark.
Standard light microscopes don't allow researchers to look
into the interior of the living brain, where memories are formed and diseases
such as dementia and cancer can take their toll.
But Stanford scientists have devised a new method that not
only lets them peer deep inside the brain to examine its neurons but also
allows them to continue monitoring for months.
The technique promises to improve understanding of both the
normal biology and diseased states of this hidden tissue.