Synaptic plasticity refers to the variability and modifiability of synapses in terms of structure and function at the morphologic interface, which is the neurobiological basis for the growth and development of the nervous system, nerve injury, repair, learning, as well as memory. Studies have demonstrated that many pathological or physiological processes such as alcoholism, drug addiction, Alzheimer's disease, and learning memory involve changes in synaptic plasticity. Combining biophysical measurements with electrophysiological techniques such as membrane clamps, we can provide a broader platform for the study of synaptic plasticity by observing the phenomenon of long-term potentiation (LTP) or long-term depression (LTD) of synaptic function.
CD BioSciences boasts cutting-edge technology platforms and equipment, incorporating a wealth of experience in the field of biophysical analysis. We are committed to research in neuroscience, focusing on synaptic plasticity and accelerating the exploration of mechanisms involved in neurological diseases.
Applications in Synaptic Plasticity
With a professional biophysical analysis platform, CD BioSciences is committed to revealing the intrinsic mechanism of synaptic plasticity changes through high-precision experimental techniques and equipment, providing powerful technical support for neuroscience research.
Observations of Synaptic Structure
Structural plasticity of synapses is an important mechanism for sustaining long-term changes in the brain through learning and experience. We provide electron microscopy that can help improve our clients' understanding of the magnitude and extent of structural plasticity at nanoscale resolution and further observe subtle changes in structures such as presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes, as well as the synaptic gap. Changes in these structures are closely related to synaptic plasticity, such as the number, size, and distribution of synaptic vesicles, as well as the morphology and composition of postsynaptic dense substance (PSD). In addition, our continuous-section electron microscopy (TEM) technology allows us to accurately measure plasticity-related changes in synaptic size and density as well as in the distribution of key cellular structures (polysomes, smooth endoplasmic reticulum, and synaptic vesicles).
Analysis of Synaptic Interfaces
PSDs contain a variety of receptors, signaling proteins, scaffolding proteins, and cytoskeletal proteins that play roles in cellular signaling, cytoskeletal anchoring, and receptor transport, and activate specific downstream signaling pathways through intermolecular dynamics upon stimulation with extracellular signals, thereby affecting neural conduction function. We provide electron microscopy to observe and analyze the structure and composition of the synaptic interface (the contact region between the presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes), further revealing the close relationship between changes in the synaptic interface and the plasticity of synaptic transmission, such as the increase or decrease of the area of the synaptic interface as well as the distribution and number of synaptic interface proteins.
Real-time Monitoring of Synaptic Plasticity Process
Our combination of advanced electron microscopy and image processing techniques allows real-time monitoring of changes in synaptic structure during synaptic plasticity. For example, dynamic processes such as the release of synaptic vesicles, endocytosis, and cytotoxicity of postsynaptic membrane receptors can be observed through time-series electron microscopy images.
Localization and Quantitative Analysis of Synaptic Plasticity-related Proteins
We can provide specialized immunoelectron microscopy techniques to localize and quantitatively analyze a range of synaptic plasticity-related proteins, such as nerve growth-associated protein (GAP-43), neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), and synaptophysin. These proteins have the function of promoting synaptic plasticity and maintaining synaptic structure, and changes in their expression and distribution can reflect the state or regulatory mechanism of synaptic plasticity.
Advantages of Our Services
- Professional technical team. We have a group of senior biophysicists and neuroscience experts dedicated to bringing professional technical guidance to our clients.
- Powerful technology platform. Our advanced analytical instruments and equipment can accelerate the completion of the test and ensure the authenticity and reliability of the data.
- Personalized service. We offer a range of customized options to meet the needs of different clients and to facilitate neuroscience research.
Related Services
CD BioSciences, as a pioneer in the field of biophysical analysis, is committed to developing and refining advanced technologies, services, and solutions that will make a significant contribution to researchers studying synaptic plasticity in neuroscience. If you would like to learn more, please feel free to contact us.
For research use only, not
intended for any clinical use.
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