AUTHOR=Lohr Christian , Beiersdorfer Antonia , Fischer Timo , Hirnet Daniela , Rotermund Natalie , Sauer Jessica , Schulz Kristina , Gee Christine E. 

TITLE=Using genetically encoded calcium indicators to study astrocyte physiology: A field guide

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience

VOLUME=15

YEAR=2021

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/cellular-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fncel.2021.690147

DOI=10.3389/fncel.2021.690147

ISSN=1662-5102

ABSTRACT=<p>Ca2+ imaging is the most frequently used technique to study glial cell physiology. While chemical Ca2+ indicators served to visualize and measure changes in glial cell cytosolic Ca2+ concentration for several decades, genetically encoded Ca2+ indicators (GECIs) have become state of the art in recent years. Great improvements have been made since the development of the first GECI and a large number of GECIs with different physical properties exists, rendering it difficult to select the optimal Ca2+ indicator. This review discusses some of the most frequently used GECIs and their suitability for glial cell research.</p>