Novel tools for synaptic connectivity and function assessment

The intricate patterns of synaptic connectivity and the diverse mechanisms of synaptic function form the basis of information processing and plasticity in the nervous system. Recent years have witnessed an explosion of novel methodologies that enhance our ability to interrogate synaptic connectivity and function at unprecedented spatiotemporal resolutions. These innovations range from cutting-edge physical instrumentation— new and improved imaging modalities such as super-resolution, multifocal and light-sheet microscopy. New ways to map connectivity, such as trans-synaptic tracers, genetically-encoded sensors, and multi-electrode electrophysiology. Together with novel tools to probe existing neural circuits, next-generation computational approaches and software tools are being developed to expedite data acquisition, analysis, and modeling of large areas of the nervous system.

This Research Topic aims to showcase state-of-the-art techniques enabling robust, high-throughput, and multi-modal assessment of synaptic connectivity and function at cellular and network levels. We are particularly interested in the following subtopics:
- Development and application of novel physical tools, such as super-resolution imaging, tracers, optogenetics, multielectrode arrays, or nanoscale probes, for mapping and manipulating synaptic connections.
- Innovative uses of genetically-encoded indicators (e.g., calcium, voltage, pH sensors) or actuators (e.g., chemogenetics, photopharmacology) for real-time monitoring or control of synaptic activity.
- Advanced software platforms for automated synapse detection, connectivity analysis from multi-modal datasets, and simulation of synaptic networks, including approaches based on machine learning or artificial intelligence.
- Integrated pipelines and open-source solutions facilitating reproducible, large-scale studies of synaptic function, plasticity, and pathology.
- Comparative studies or benchmarks between traditional and novel assessment methods.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: synaptic connectivity, synaptic function, synaptic plasticity, synaptic pathology, chemogenetics, photopharmacology, genetically-encoded indicators, super-resolution imaging, optogenetics, multielectrode arrays, nanoscale probes

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.