A method to visualize and quantify F-actin barbed ends in neuronal growth cones is described. After culturing neurons on glass coverslips, cells are permeabilized with a saponin-containing solution. Then, a short incubation with the saponin buffer containing rhodamine-actin incorporates fluorescent actin onto free actin barbed ends.
Marsick, B. M., Letourneau, P. C. Labeling F-actin Barbed Ends with Rhodamine-actin in Permeabilized Neuronal Growth Cones. J. Vis. Exp. (49), e2409, doi:10.3791/2409 (2011).