Changes in calcium microdomains following injury to the central nervous system

What is it about?

Following injury to the central nervous system, damage spreads into surrounding areas, leading to further loss of function. Changes in calcium ions are thought to contribute to this spreading damage. Here we demonstrate reduced density of calcium microdomains, in rat optic nerve close to an injury. Changes were restricted to calcium microdomains that were not co-localised with areas enriched in phosphorous. Release of calcium from microdomains may contribute to damage following neurotrauma.

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Why is it important?

Our study utilises nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS) to provide high resolution assessments of calcium microdomains. Use of NanoSIMS technology allows us to directly measure calcium ions and avoid potential confounding effects of indicator dyes and genetic manipulations. Further, the tissue is rapidly excised from the animal and cryopreserved, such that tissue closely approximates its living state.