Neuronal precursor's radial migration in the brain (Javier Díaz Alonso). iHealth

Here, a region of a midgestational stage mouse embryo’s cerebral cortex is represented. GFP+ green cells had been transfected before trough in-utero electroporation. This technique allows the specific genetic modification of some cells located adjacent to the cerebral ventricles. After DNA injection, an electrical current is applied to direct the DNA (negatively charged) to the positive electrode, that is oriented towards the region of interest. The red channel identifies this ROI. Three days after surgery, one can distinguish several GFP+ cell subpopulations, some of them still near the site of electroporation, some undergoing the radial migration process. This process is essential for the correct shaping of the cerebrum during development, and our work is contributing to unveil the CB1 cannabinoid receptor role in the control of such process, which has huge pathophysiological implications in the adult brain function.