Establishment of “Anterograde CLEM” that links multi-scale structural information using virus vectors

One goal of neuroscience is to map anatomical and functional connectivity of the brain comprehensively, creating a connectome. There are two strategies to map a connectome: one uses interregional connectivity analysis combined with virus tracers and light microscopy (LM), and the other achieves comprehensive analysis using electron microscopy (EM). In this project, we aim to establish a unique technique, anterograde CLEM (light and electron correlation microscopy), that enables us to zoom in on targets from the macroscopic (brain) to nanoscopic (synapse) levels with pinpoint accuracy by developing innovative technologies including adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. This novel technique will promote the integration of circuit structure analysis conducted at each level from the macro to the nano level.