In neuroscience, genetically encoded sensors have proven useful to study neuron activity in different contexts. Yet, current sensors are unable to detect single spiking activity in large neuron populations. Potassium ions can be good indicators of this activity because of their role in membrane excitability; however, there are no good, non-invasive ways to measure this ion’s dynamics. Here, we propose that genetically encoded potassium sensors can be optimized to detect such activity in dense neural circuits.

Achieving a deeper understanding of the brain is an endeavor that requires the consideration of interactions across time and space at many scales. To approach the specific challenge of observing in vivo brain activity, we have developed a light-field microscope capable of capturing isotropically resolved volumetric images without scanning light or translating the sample. In this talk, we discuss technical challenges addressed in developing our technology and potential applications using zebrafish to probe neuronal integration of sensory inputs.