Spinning disk confocal imaging system equipped with FRAP and TIRF units (Renewal)

• Subject Area: Neurosciences
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 583774744

Confocal spinning disk microscopy is indispensable for investigating the dynamic properties of a wide range of biological samples. A confocal spinning disk imaging system with FRAP and TIRF units has been in use at the Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH) at the University Medical Center for 13 years. It is currently assumed that individual components of the system, including the laser lines, will lose performance and fail due to their long operating time. In addition, after more than a decade, the resolution of the cameras no longer meets current standards. However, the optics and the FRAP and TIRF units of the device are still in good condition. Currently, the imaging system is equipped with a spinning disk unit in combination with an inverted microscope, four lasers (405 nm, 488 nm, 561 nm, 640 nm), and two EM-CCD cameras. It was acquired in 2012 through a DFG large-scale equipment grant and subsequently expanded to enable FRAP imaging and TIRF imaging. The time-limited DFG program for upgrading large research equipment motivated us to submit this application, as we are convinced that this large-scale equipment can be brought back up to an acceptable standard after replacing wear parts and renewing its technically obsolete components.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: Konfokales Spinning-Disk-Bildgebungssystem mit FRAP- und TIRF-Einheiten (Erneuerung)
• Instrumentation Group: 5090 Spezialmikroskope
• Applicant Institution: Universität Hamburg
• Leader: Professor Matthias Kneussel, Ph.D.