Targeting Noradrenergic Neurons of the Locus Coeruleus: A Comparison of Model Systems and Strategies

Abstract

AbstractThe locus coeruleus (LC) noradrenergic system is involved in a plethora of physiological and pathophysiological processes. Refining our understanding of LC function largely relies on selective transgene expression in molecularly defined cells, enabling targeted manipulation and read-out of noradrenergic neurons. Here, we performed a side-by-side comparison of the most commonly used strategies and model systems enabling genetic access to the locus coeruleus. We report substantial differences among them both in terms of transgene expression efficacy, and in their molecular specificity. These findings are of critical importance for interpreting the results obtained from past experiments using the respective targeting strategies, as well as for the design of future studies.