Applied Microscopy

Korean Society of Microscopy (한국현미경학회)
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Nano-Resolution Connectomics Using Large-Volume Electron Microscopy

  • Kim, Gyu Hyun (Laboratory of Synaptic Circuit Plasticity, Department of Structure and Function of Neural Network, Korea Brain Research Institute) ;
  • Gim, Ja Won (Laboratory of Computational Neuroscience, Department of Structure and Function of Neural Network, Korea Brain Research Institute) ;
  • Lee, Kea Joo (Laboratory of Synaptic Circuit Plasticity, Department of Structure and Function of Neural Network, Korea Brain Research Institute)
  • Received : 2016.12.21
  • Accepted : 2016.12.24
  • Published : 2016.12.30
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Abstract

A distinctive neuronal network in the brain is believed to make us unique individuals. Electron microscopy is a valuable tool for examining ultrastructural characteristics of neurons, synapses, and subcellular organelles. A recent technological breakthrough in volume electron microscopy allows large-scale circuit reconstruction of the nervous system with unprecedented detail. Serial-section electron microscopy-previously the domain of specialists-became automated with the advent of innovative systems such as the focused ion beam and serial block-face scanning electron microscopes and the automated tape-collecting ultramicrotome. Further advances in microscopic design and instrumentation are also available, which allow the reconstruction of unprecedentedly large volumes of brain tissue at high speed. The recent introduction of correlative light and electron microscopy will help to identify specific neural circuits associated with behavioral characteristics and revolutionize our understanding of how the brain works.

Keywords

References

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