Confocal Microscope

• Subject Area: Neurosciences
• Term: Funded in 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 573699231

Confocal microscopy is a key technology for research tasks in the life sciences. The purpose of this application is to procure a new, state-of-the-art confocal laser microscope for medical research at the University Hospital of Würzburg. The device used to date dates from 2010, is technically obsolete, and no longer meets the requirements of current scientific research. The new microscope will play a central role in research into neurological diseases. The device will enable scientists to obtain high-resolution images of living cells, their internal structures, and complex cell networks. This will allow fundamental processes in nerve cells, such as signal transmission, neural circuits, and changes in diseases such as Parkinson's, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or chronic pain syndromes, to be visualized and better understood. Since many of the cells being studied are very sensitive and must be analyzed while alive, it is essential that the microscope be operated in close proximity to the cell culture laboratories at the institute. Transporting the specimens to more distant core facilities would significantly impair the quality of the research. The planned use is intensive: the device will be in operation six days a week for up to 18 hours a day. In addition to scientists, students of medicine, life sciences, and psychology will also be introduced to the device and trained in its use as part of their research projects. The new microscope is an essential tool for current and planned research projects, some of which are funded by the German Research Foundation or European programs. The central location of the microscope within the hospital and its modern equipment with live cell imaging and four-color analysis will enable the further expansion of cutting-edge international research at the Würzburg site. The proposed investment will ensure that researchers in Würzburg can continue to work with state-of-the-art technology in the future and make important contributions to a better understanding and treatment of serious neurological and oncological diseases.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: Konfokales Mikroskop
• Instrumentation Group: 5090 Spezialmikroskope
• Applicant Institution: Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg
• Leader: Professor Dr. Philip Tovote