Staining Murine Whole Lenses with SynaptoRed™ C2 v2

Visualization of cellular morphology in intact lenses is essential for studying tissue architecture and cytoskeletal organization. Here, we describe a protocol for fluorescent staining of whole murine lenses using SynaptoRed TM C2 and Hoechst to label plasma membranes and nuclei, respectively. Following ex vivo incubation in Medium 199, intact murine lenses were briefly stained with SynaptoRed TM C2 and Hoechst, washed, and imaged immediately using high-resolution confocal microscopy. This staining approach allows clear visualization of cellular boundaries and nuclear organization within the intact lens without the need for fixation or sectioning. Overall, this protocol provides a rapid and reliable method for assessing cell morphology and spatial organization in whole lens tissue.