Brainbow

Brainbow is a genetic cell labeling technique that makes use of 3 colors (blue, green, and red) when combined together can originate hundreds of different color tones.

With the creation of the Brainbow technic, neuroscientists/ researchers are now able to tag axons, follow cells during development or analyze lineage, construct specific maps of neural circuits, and better investigate how all of these relate to various mental activities and their connected behaviors. This technic can also be used to studio neurological and psychological disorders by analyzing differences in neuronal maps.

fig. 1 Purkinje Neurons- By Tamily Weissman, Harvard University

Like everything in the world if it looks too perfect it's because the limitations are yet to be presented!!!

Due to the random nature in the expression of the fluorescent proteins, scientists are unable to precisely control the labeling of neural circuitry, which may result in the poor identification of specific neurons.

The use of Brainbow in mammal populations is also hampered by the incredible diversity of neurons in the central nervous system. The absolute density of neurons, together with the presence of long axon tracts, makes it difficult to visualize larger regions of the CNS with high resolution.

fig. 2 hippocampus- By Tamily Weissman, Harvard University

Despite that, this is one of the most beautiful and aesthetic technics used up to date.

References

• Hammer, S., Monavarfeshani, A., Lemon, T., Su, J., & Fox, M. (2015). Multiple Retinal Axons Converge onto Relay Cells in the Adult Mouse Thalamus. Cell Reports, 12(10), 1575–1583. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.celrep.2015.08.003

• ‌Abraira, Victoria E., & Ginty, David D. (2013). The Sensory Neurons of Touch. Neuron, 79(4), 618–639. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2013.07.051

• ‌Yeager, A. (2018, November 27). Image of the Day: All Lit Up. Retrieved October 12, 2021, from The Scientist Magazine® website: https://www.the-scientist.com/image-of-the-day/image-of-the-day--all-lit-up-65142

• ‌Brainbow: Cell Press. (2021). Retrieved October 12, 2021, from Cell.com website: https://www.cell.com/pictureshow/brainbow