Atomic force microscopy on living cells or 3D samples is a powerful technique to measure the mechanical properties such as elastic moduli , rigidity, adhesion force, adhesion energy. Combining optical images, AI and AFM, cell population’s mechanome becomes accessible. 3D samples (tissues, organoids) mechanical properties require specific expertise we also provide.
Technology: Phase contrast microscopy
This method enhances contrast in transparent specimens, such as living cells, by converting small differences in refractive index into visible differences in brightness. It allows detailed observation of unstained samples.
Numerous tests to monitor the performance of photonic microscopy systems, including light source power, observation field homogeneity, detector stability, etc. Training at PRIMACEN or at the applicants’ site.
Workflow from sample preparation, MET and cryo-confocal, advanced photonic microscopy
WF/confocal/FLIM, CLEM, image analysis (AMIRA)
Zeiss CD7, XY, Z-stacks, multi-points, mosaics, time-lapse
We use QPI to quantify the dry mass, intra-cellular transport, cell growth, cell migration
In order to characterise dynamic phenomena at the molecular level, we have developed expertise in evaluating their diffusion (FRAP) and highlighting interactions (FRAP/FRET-FLIM).
Depending on the speed and resolution need for your live imaging project , the IGBMC platform propose different imaging systems equipped with an environmental chamber. Wide-field triggered Zeiss AxioObserver system will allow long term analysis of cell motility, wound healing application, Long-term observation of multi-labelled living cells, intracellular dynamics processes analysis (Calcium, ratiometric FRET imaging, vesicles )…High spatial 3D resolution imaging of living cells or tissues is possible on 1 point scanning (Leica TCS SP8X) or on 2 spinning disk microscopes (Yokogawa CSU-X1 or CSU-W1 scanning head) for fast acquisitions with reduced photobleaching. Live-SR modules are available on our 2-spinning disk systems enabling live Super-resolution up to 105 nm at high speed with no specific fluorophores required. 1 TIRF system equipped with a EM-CCD camera allows super resolution imaging along the optical axis (~100 nm) so imaging of membrane processes, such as receptor-ligand interactions, endocytosis, viral infection, or cell adhesion to surfaces.
2 new systems will be installed at the IGBMC platform in Spring 2025, opening up new possibilities for live imaging : 1 Lattice lightsheet will allow dynamic imaging of full sample volumes (cells, spheroids, organoids, zebrafish/c-elegans/drosophilia embryos…) with high temporal and spatial resolution and next to no phototoxicity and bleaching; 1 lattice SIM system will allow cellular, subcellular, and even sub-organelle structures in living specimens imaging in 2D and 3D with high speed, resolution below the diffraction limit (120nm, 60nm with processing) , with no need of specific fluorophores. Highest super resolution live imaging also available at our neighbored FBI Alsace Node “Plateforme Imagerie In Vitro” at INCI with the Leica Steallris STED with TauSTED and Falcon lifetime imaging option.