Project Details
Projekt
Fully Automated Ultrahigh-Content Imaging System
Subject Area
Medicine
Term
Funded in 2025
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 576659981
Modern ultra-high-content imaging systems enable the simultaneous staining and imaging of hundreds of proteins within a single tissue section. This capability allows not only the identification of specific cell types in their native tissue context, but, owing to subcellular resolution, also the precise localization of proteins within individual cellular compartments. By integrating RNA-based detection methods with antibodies targeting specific protein phosphorylation states, such systems permit the concurrent assessment of transcripts, proteins, and critical post-translational parameters on the same tissue section. Incorporating tissue biobanks from well-characterized patient cohorts will facilitate the development of clinically relevant biomarker panels, while also enabling efficient validation of drug target specificity. In addition to automation of the imaging process, seamless integration into a robust, user-friendly analysis platform is essential to ensure efficient quantification and broad applicability across research areas. In the course of an extensive, open-ended evaluation, we tested the preferred device in detail and assessed the feasibility of various applications in comparison with other commercially available systems. Demonstrations focused on evaluating both feasibility and operational robustness. Among the advantages of the proposed device, we particularly emphasize its unique compatibility with unconjugated antibodies and already established in our institutes. The system supports imaging of a large number of markers (up to 40 in a single run) through sequential cycles of (i) automated staining, (ii) image acquisition, and (iii) gentle antibody stripping. This proposal outlines in detail why acquisition of such an imaging system is essential for both ongoing and future projects at our site. A well-defined usage plan, developed in close coordination with all participating partners, is presented alongside a data management strategy that follows FAIR principles. The system will be centrally operated within the Organoid Core Facility, with eight research-intensive institutes—each with a demonstrated high demand for the technology—listed as co-applicants. No comparable instrument is currently available at the Ulm site. The introduction of this technology will substantially accelerate and enhance current research activities and is expected to stimulate the initiation of new projects. Specific applications for individual institutes and clinical departments are described in sections 3.2 to 3.9. Integration into the Core structure of the Medical Faculty will ensure cross-departmental access for a broad community of researchers. The ability to multiplex multiple markers, combined with advanced quantification software, offers considerable potential across a wide range of research questions and disciplines. Following installation, the system’s use will be actively promoted campus-wide, with further expansion in utilization anticipated.
DFG Programme
Major Research Instrumentation
Major Instrumentation
Vollautomatisiertes Ultrahigh-Content Imaging System
Instrumentation Group
5042 Mikroskope für Hochdurchsatz und Screening
Applicant Institution
Universität Ulm
