A Method For The Study Of The Spatial-Distribution Of The Neuronal Dendritic Tree Using A Universal Stage

Abstract

The use of a microscope equipped with a universal stage with 4 rotation axes, drawing tube and photographic system for the 3-dimensional study of neuronal morphology is considered. Two-dimensional projections of the neuronal tree are obtained by rotating the stage, and the application of coordinate transformations results in a 3-dimensional mapping of neuronal topography. Algorithms used for these transformations are presented and the method applied to Golgi-impregnated neurons of the cerebral cortex of adult lizards. The advantages, limitations and sources of error of this method are discussed.