300517 SE+UE Theory and Application of Confocal Microscopy (2008S)

After rapid development, the Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope (CLSM) became the most important imaging tool in both organismic and molecular biology. In this course, we present the theoretical background of CLSM, its application in structure analysis, in measurement and quantification of physiological parameters like membrane potential, ion concentrations or enzyme activities as well as current special techniques. In a hands-on-training, we will apply the following techniques: localisation and identification of structures with organelle specific fluorescent dyes and GFP, 3D-reconstruction and animation, 4D analysis, ratio imaging, spectral dye separation. Participants are encouraged to bring their own samples. Positive examination of this lab course is a prerequisite for independent work on the CLSM of the Cell Imaging and Ultrastructure Research Unit.