Advances in fluorescence imaging techniques for myelin

Abstract

Myelin is an important component of the central nervous system, formed by glial cells surrounding neurons. Its damage is closely associated with diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and white matter malnutrition, making the myelin a potentialized target. Therefore, conducting myelin imaging highly benefits for the early diagnosis and treatment of related diseases. Fluorescence imaging has advantages such as high sensitivity, high specificity, and high signal-to-noise ratio, which can effectively image the myelin and indicate changes in its content. This review summarizes fluorescence imaging techniques used for myelin imaging in recent decades, focusing on the principles and applications of these techniques, and purposing prospects for future development. We hope that the development of fluorescence imaging techniques will provide researchers with new insights into the structure and distribution of myelin, as well as powerful research tools for studying key processes such as nervous system development, degeneration, and regeneration.