Inverted confocal-laser-scanning-microscope with an extended excitation-emission spectrum

• Subject Area: Plant Sciences
• Term: Funded in 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 525029482

The LMU plant science program and plant genetics labs propose the acquisition of a new inverted confocal laser scanning microscope with extended wavelength excitation and emission detection capabilities. Both sections have depended on two Leica SP5 machines acquired in 2005 and 2006, respectively. Due to the lack of spare parts, Leica terminated service of SP5 machines in 2022. This decision has rendered one machine dysfunctional already. The second SP5 may follow soon. Over the last years, several research groups with heavy imaging demand have been established at the Biocenter campus at LMU Martinsried. In addition, a the DFG-funded Collaborative Research Centre TRR has added new demands for state-of-the-art in vivo imaging methods which cannot be met currently. These demands include but are not limited to studies of genetically encoded sensors. The current and future research focus of the LMU plant science unit is to study the molecular function of chloroplasts in the plant acclimation process towards changes in the environments. Therefore, sophisticated confocal imaging capabilities in close proximity to our newly constructed strictly controlled environment chambers are indispensable. The proposed microscope will include a trigger unit to allow defined applications of various environmental stress triggers e.g., high light treatments. Several groups at LMU have expressed an interest to image organisms with far-red light absorbing pigments such chlorophyll f. Thus, a setup with extended excitation-emission features is needed. Our thorough research of all equipment on campus or in close proximity has revealed the current lack of the required microscopic capabilities at LMU biology. To fill this void, our group of eight primary users have compiled a confocal setup which would ideally satisfy all current and future imaging requirements. The LMU Center for Advanced Light Microscopy (CALM) management system will guarantee flawless online equipment booking and with that optimized equipment utilization by properly trained scientists. Through the collection of user-fees we will guarantee the longevity and sustainability of the newly acquired inverted confocal laser scanning microscope with extended wavelength excitation and emission detection capabilities.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: Invertiertes Konfokales Laser-Scanning-Mikroskop mit erweitertem Wellenlängenspektrum
• Instrumentation Group: 5090 Spezialmikroskope
• Applicant Institution: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
• Leader: Professor Dr. Hans-Henning Kunz