# Fluorescent Labeling Methods for Brain Structure Research

## TL;DR

This review discusses fluorescent labeling techniques used in brain research to better understand brain structure and function, and their potential in treating neurological disorders.

## Contribution

The paper highlights recent advances and future directions in integrating fluorescent labeling with advanced imaging and data analysis techniques.

## Key findings

- Fluorescent labeling combined with imaging methods enables detailed analysis of brain anatomy.
- Smart fluorescent labeling is being integrated with tissue clearing and AI for improved data processing.
- Future research aims to combine high-resolution imaging with big data analysis for deeper insights into brain function.

## Abstract

The brain is a complex structural network. The employment of fluorescent labeling techniques in conjunction with advanced imaging methodologies facilitates comprehensive analysis of multiscale brain anatomy, thereby offering insights into fundamental principles of function and addressing neurological disorders. This review summarizes technological advances in fluorescent labeling methods in the field of neuroscience, and their applications in neural circuit analysis, cerebrovascular imaging, neuronal activity monitoring, and fluorescence-guided treatment of brain tumors. A challenging trend in integrating smart fluorescent labeling with tissue clearing, wide-field 3D imaging, artificial intelligence-assisted data processing/reconstruction, and multimodal information fusion is highlighted and discussed. The future direction of combining high-resolution, low-damage, dynamic imaging with big data analysis is envisioned, providing tools for understanding brain structure and function and their roles in disease.