Confocal laser microscopy to study microcirculation on the rat brain surface in vivo.

We demonstrate the feasibility of using confocal laser microscopy (CLM) to study the microcirculation on the rat brain surface. Using a closed cranial window model in vivo, microvessels in the size range of capillaries (8 microns) and dynamic events were observed through an intact dura. This study is the first step in the development of a system which simultaneously monitors vascular and metabolic processes using CLM.