Probing neuronal functions with precise and targeted laser ablation in the living cortex

The study developed an amplified femtosecond laser-coupled two-photon microscopy (AFL-TPM) system for precise and targeted ablation of individual cells in the living mouse cortex, allowing real-time monitoring of neuronal network changes. The system enabled the ablation of somatostatin-expressing interneurons, which increased the activity of nearby neurons in the primary motor cortex during motor learning. Additionally, the study demonstrated that different dendritic branches of layer 5 pyramidal neurons were structurally and functionally independent. The AFL-TPM system provided a valuable tool for understanding the functions of cells within complex neuronal networks.