Lightsheet mircroscope

• Subject Area: Neurosciences
• Term: Funded in 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 493258800

The applicants investigate structure-function relationships from the cellular-molecular level to the anatomical analyses of neuronal networks and systemic issues involving whole organisms. Here, lighsheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM) can provide unique insights into intact organs and living organisms through high-resolution three-dimensional visualization. Lighsheet fluorescence microscopy combines high spatial resolution with low phototoxicity and high image acquisition speed. In addition to the possibility to investigate entire large structures after clearing with high spatial resolution, dynamic processes such as the development of green algae, pathogen invasion in plants, or the change of redox states for the analysis of signal transduction processes can be analyzed with this technique. On the other hand, light sheet microscopy also allows (functional) structural analyses across different size and resolution scales. In the present application, for example, investigations of green algae and tumor spheres are to be made possible, as is the analysis of complete rodent brains. Depending on the research question, subcellular resolution must be achieved, for example in the observation of signal transduction-specific reporter proteins or the analysis of nanoparticles, while other projects with a more cellular focus will enable, for example, the interaction between glial cells and neurons or the localization of X-ray contrast agents in the rodent brain. In addition, tracing studies will address neuronal connectivity in whole brains. The proposed research microscope is ideally suited to combine analysis from the molecular to the organismic level, enabling both anatomical-structural and physiological-functional analyses, due to the multiple uses summarized here in abbreviated form.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: Lichtblattmikroskop
• Instrumentation Group: 5090 Spezialmikroskope
• Applicant Institution: Universität Bielefeld
• Leader: Professor Dr. Jacob Engelmann