confocal laser-scanning-microscope (cLSM)

• Subject Area: Basic Research in Biology and Medicine
• Term: Funded in 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 564097633

The requested microscope system will be used as a central research device at the Institute of Cell Biology to process externally funded research projects at the University Medical Centre Rostock (UMR) and the University of Rostock, such as the SFB 1270 (Collaborative Research Centre (CRC)). The existing device is ‘out of support’ and can no longer be used reliably. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (cLSM) has been used in research for around 40 years and is becoming increasingly widespread. In contrast to conventional fluorescence-based microscopes, cLSM can optically section layers of (biological) samples and thus provide detailed, clearly delineated images of subcellular structures. This outstanding resolution of the cLSM is critical when analysing complex structures and cellular interactions. A further advantage of the cLSM is acquiring and reconstructing 3-dimensional images to examine cell morphology, dynamics, and the spatial organisation of proteins/molecules within the cell/sample. Due to the punctual illumination of the system, photobleaching and phototoxicity effects are avoided, thus enabling more extended observation periods. Equipped with an incubation unit (temperature and CO2), the system is also suitable for live cell imaging. Current cLSM systems also offer simultaneous spectral detection of multiple weak markers with maximum light yield, allowing complex experiments with multiple fluorescent markers to be detected and differentiated. Innovative processing and analysis allow subsequent quantification of the images/data. This enables reproducible results and automated analyses, which are essential for scientific validity and publications. The realisation of such comprehensive research approaches promotes interdisciplinarity and expands the spectrum of experimental questions. The cLSM can therefore be used in various research fields, such as cell biology, neurology, and material sciences. The acquisition of a cLSM promotes collaboration between many disciplines and strengthens our scientific network and research expertise. The research projects for this device are funded by the DFG and the state government of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The focus is on UMR's research focus - HealthTechMedicine - and relates to regenerative medicine, including developing implants to regenerate bone, cartilage, and soft tissue. These funding programs require modern equipment to support complex, high-ranking research projects/applications. The cLSM is used at a well-established site in the Biomedical Research Centre and is managed by competent scientists.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: Konfokales Laser-Scanning-Mikroskop (cLSM)
• Instrumentation Group: 5090 Spezialmikroskope
• Applicant Institution: Universität Rostock
• Leader: Dr. Henrike Rebl