rAAV-mDlx

The mDlx promoter, derived from the distal-less homeobox (Dlx) gene family, is used in recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) systems for targeted gene expression in GABAergic inhibitory neurons. The Dlx family is crucial for the development and function of inhibitory interneurons, making the mDlx promoter an excellent choice for studying these cell types.

Features of rAAV-mDlx

• Inhibitory Neuron-Specific Expression:
  • The mDlx promoter ensures specific expression in GABAergic inhibitory neurons, including parvalbumin (PV), somatostatin (SST), and other inhibitory interneuron subtypes.
• Developmental and Adult Targeting:
  • Functional in both developing and mature inhibitory neurons.
• Long-Term Expression:
  • rAAV enables stable, persistent transgene expression in inhibitory neurons.
• Cross-Species Compatibility:
  • Effective in a variety of mammalian species, including rodents and non-human primates.

Applications of rAAV-mDlx

• Neuroscience Research:
  • Circuit Mapping: Tracing inhibitory connections within neural circuits using fluorescent markers or tracers.
  • Optogenetics and Chemogenetics: Delivery of tools like halorhodopsins or inhibitory DREADDs to modulate inhibitory neuron activity.
  • Calcium Imaging: Expression of calcium indicators (e.g., GCaMP) to study inhibitory neuron dynamics in real-time.
• Behavioral Studies:
  • Investigating the role of inhibitory neurons in neural circuits related to sensory processing, memory, and behavior.
• Disease Modeling:
  • Studying inhibitory neuron dysfunction in disorders such as epilepsy, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorders.
  • Understanding how changes in inhibitory circuits contribute to neurological or psychiatric conditions.
• Gene Therapy:
  • Targeted delivery of therapeutic genes to restore inhibitory circuit function in diseases like epilepsy or neurodevelopmental disorders.

rAAV-mDlx is a robust and targeted tool for studying GABAergic inhibitory neurons, their roles in neural circuits, and their involvement in health and disease. Its specificity for inhibitory neurons makes it invaluable for both basic neuroscience research and therapeutic development.