Three-dimensional atlas of iron, copper, and zinc in the mouse cerebrum and brainstem

Anal Chem. 2012 May 1;84(9):3990-7. doi: 10.1021/ac300374x. Epub 2012 Apr 10.

Abstract

Atlases depicting molecular and functional features of the brain are becoming an integral part of modern neuroscience. In this study we used laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICPMS) to quantitatively measure iron (Fe), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) levels in a serially sectioned C57BL/6 mouse brain (cerebrum and brainstem). Forty-six sections were analyzed in a single experiment of approximately 158 h in duration. We constructed a 46-plate reference atlas by aligning quantified images of metal distribution with corresponding coronal sections from the Allen Mouse Brain Reference Atlas. The 46 plates were also used to construct three-dimensional models of Fe, Cu, and Zn distribution. This atlas represents the first reconstruction of quantitative trace metal distribution through the brain by LA-ICPMS and will facilitate the study of trace metals in the brain and help to elucidate their role in neurobiology.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain Stem / chemistry*
  • Cerebrum / chemistry*
  • Copper / analysis*
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional / methods
  • Iron / analysis*
  • Laser Therapy
  • Male
  • Mass Spectrometry / methods*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Zinc / analysis*

Substances

  • Copper
  • Iron
  • Zinc