Sishir Gautam, Olga M Ocón-Grove, Jenna K Greaser, Navin Adhikari, Rashmi Thapa, Yun Li
Gradient-index (GRIN) lens implantation enables deep brain imaging in animal models. Tissue-aspiration based GRIN lens implantation procedures often suffer from low success rates. Here, we present an improved protocol for NeuralGlider-assisted GRIN lens implantation in the mouse medial prefrontal cortex. We describe steps from viral injection to in vivo calcium imaging, with primary focus on GRIN lens implantation. This NeuralGlider-assisted insertion protocol minimized tissue damage through a controlled insertion speed, gentle lens rotation, axial micro-oscillation, and vacuum-based lens stabilization.