A neuroscience marker panel for studying the brain

The nervous system controls and regulates involuntary and voluntary processes in the organism, including higher-order functions such as perception, cognition, emotions, and others. Cells in the brain can be broadly categorized into two types: neurons and glia. Neurons are responsible for transmitting and processing information in the form of electrical signals. Glia, on the other hand, provide support and protection to neurons: astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and Schwann cells support, nourish, and provide electrical isolation to the neural processes.

The complexity of the nervous system is further increased by the various chemical neurotransmitters and multiple receptor subtypes expressed by different types of neurons to transmit information.

In neuroscience research, antibody-based immunohistochemistry plays a crucial role in detecting, characterizing, and classifying various cell types. This technique is widely employed to gain insights into the intricate cellular composition of the brain and understand the roles played by different neurons and glial cells in information processing and transmission.

Why studying neurons-glia interaction?

By exploring neuron-glia interactions, researchers can deepen their understanding of brain function, uncover the mechanisms underlying neurological disorders, and shed light on the intricate processes of brain development and plasticity. In particular:

Function and communication:

Neuron-glia connections are essential for proper brain function and communication. Glia play a crucial role in supporting and modulating neuronal activity, influencing processes such as synaptic transmission, neuronal survival, and plasticity. Understanding how neurons and glia interact and communicate can provide insights into the fundamental mechanisms underlying brain function.

Neurological disorders:

Dysfunction in neuron-glia interactions has been implicated in various neurological disorders. Alterations in glial function, such as abnormal signaling or impaired regulation of neurotransmitters, can contribute to conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy. Investigating neuron-glia connections can help uncover potential therapeutic targets and strategies for treating these disorders.

Development and plasticity:

Neuron-glia interactions are particularly crucial during brain development and plasticity. Glial cells actively participate in processes such as synaptogenesis, myelination, and the removal of synapses.

The role of primary antibodies in neuroscience research

Primary antibodies are essential tools in neuroscience research as they can specifically bind to proteins expressed in neurons and glia, allowing scientists to identify and study these cells under a microscope.

By using primary antibodies, researchers can gain insights into the structure, function, and interactions of neurons and glia, advancing our understanding of the complex workings of the brain. Therefore, the need for highly-characterized and specific antibodies in neuroscience research is high.

Atlas Antibodies, has developed a panel of PrecisA Monoclonals^TM primary antibodies designed to recognize the main anatomical and neurochemical cell types in rodents and the human nervous system.

PrecisA Monoclonal antibodies are considered ideal tools for identifying neurons and glia in the brain. These antibodies are generated from a single type of immune cell, resulting in a highly specific targeting of proteins expressed by neurons or glia.

Due to their specificity, monoclonal antibodies can precisely bind to these proteins, allowing for accurate identification and characterization of different cell types. Their high affinity and selectivity make PrecisA Monoclonals an indispensable resource for neuroscientists, enabling them to unravel the intricacies of neural networks and investigate the roles of neurons and glia in various brain functions and disorders.

Here is a selection of PrecisA Monoclonal antibodies targeting neurons and glial cells:

PrecisA Monoclonals^TM are enhanced validated primary antibodies manufactured by Atlas Antibodies.

Learn more about PrecisA Monoclonals