Project Details
Projekt
Multiphoton microscope
Subject Area
Neurosciences
Term
since 2026
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 569361386
Two-photon microscopy is a state-of-the-art technique for observing dynamic structural and functional processes in a living animal with minimal light damage. It is especially informative for gaining insights into the normal physiology and diseases of the brain, where structural plasticity and activity of neurons and glial cells can be observed within their natural cellular environment at single-cell resolution and in the context of animal behavior. Use of fluorescent sensors furthermore provides insights into distinct aspects of neuronal biology such as protein quality control, synapse maintenance and turnover. In addition, optogenetic stimulation allows pinpointing the role of specific neuron types in defined behaviors. This application focusses on a two-photon imaging platform for intravital microscopy in awake behaving mice. Using genetic and viral approaches to target defined cell types in the brain, we will monitor neural circuits and neuron-glia interactions in healthy animals and study how these processes become compromised in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative conditions. Simultaneous recording of animal behavior will link these cellular phenomena to specific behavioral features. The proposed experiments require a multiphoton imaging system with a galvo/resonant scanner, tunable laser that allows multi-color imaging, as well as the possibility of optogenetic manipulations. Taken together, our research program will advance the understanding of the normal brain function and provide new insights into the pathophysiology of brain disorders. Two-photon microscopy of brain tissue in living animals is a crucial tool for these investigations.
DFG Programme
Major Research Instrumentation
Major Instrumentation
Multiphotonenmikroskop
Instrumentation Group
5090 Spezialmikroskope
Applicant Institution
Universität zu Köln
