Overview
Light microscopy is a powerful tool for medical and biological research. In lung research, light microscopy has been used as a standard tool for analysing histological samples for many decades. More recent advanced techniques such as fluorescence laser scanning confocal microscopy greatly expand the experimental toolbox for lung research by visualizing cells and tissues with sub-cellular resolution.
The TLRC Laboratory – Advanced Light Microscopy - is equipped with a Leica TCS SP8 laser-scanning fluorescence microscope, a Leica DMi8 widefield microscope, and a Hamamatsu slide-scanner Nano Zoomer S60.
The Leica TCS SP8 laser-scanning fluorescence microscope is a key instrument for several research projects at the TLRC, including the development and evaluation of novel FRET-probes for the localization and quantification of different proteases implicated in chronic lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis and COPD; and studies on the role of epithelial ion transport and airway surface liquid regulation in health and disease.
The Leica DMi8 epifluorescence microscope in combination with the Leica Application Suite X (LASX) offers a good platform for the imaging and analysis of histological lung samples. The Leica MC120HD colour-camera is available for the imaging of histologically dyed samples in addition to the Lecia DFC300G for imaging of fluorescent dyes. This allows a sample documentation according to the statistical demands.
The Hamamatsu Nano Zoomer S60 Slide scanner allows a fast and partially automated or fully automated digitalisation of histologically dyed samples on up to 60 slides. An integrated software solution allows the viewing and simple analyses of recorded imaging data.
Advanced microscopy solutions can also be accessed at Advanced Light Microscopy Facility (ALMF), based in EMBL Heidelberg. You can find more information here .
The TLRC Laboratory – Advanced Light Microscopy - provides access to light microscopy equipment as well as training and support in developing appropriate experimental designs to members of the Translational Lung Research Center Heidelberg (TLRC) and the German Center for Lung Research (DZL). The laboratory is embedded in the Heidelberg Lung Imaging Platform and the Imaging Platform of the DZL.