Topic: automated image analysis

Axon diameter varies up to 100-fold between distinct neurons in the central nervous system with larger axons exhibiting faster nerve conduction velocity. Further axon diameter influences myelination and its dynamic regulation might help fine-tune the timing of signal propagation and thus neural circuit function. Despite its importance, we know surprisingly little about how axons grow to such different diameters in the living nervous system and which mechanisms underlie this diversity. To fully understand how nervous systems are built, functionally mature, and remain healthy, we need to underst

Fragile X syndrome (FXS), caused by inactivation of Fmr1 gene, is the most common cause of intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder. Fmr1 knockout (Fmr1KO) mice display a disorganization of perineuronal nets (PNNs), specialized forms of extracellular matrix which form around neurons during postnatal development in many brain areas. These nets are preferentially established around Parvalbumin-positive GABAergic interneurons (PVIs), and their presence reduces brain plasticity. PNN and PVI expression is altered in various neuropsychiatric disorders and in some cases their manipulation