Total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy as a powerful tool to follow dynamic events at the cell membrane.

The article discusses the use of total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRFM) to evaluate the glutamatergic signaling in the nervous system and in peripheral organs. Topics include the dynamic modulation of glutamate transporter density, the molecular mechanisms that control excitatory amino acid carrier 1 (EAAC1) surface density, and the mechanisms of allopregnanolone (ALLO).