Microscopy and Image Analysis

The technology platform ‘Microscopy and Image Analysis’ (TP MIA) provides a wide range of light and electron microscopy techniques and workflows to examine virus infections in cellular systems, tissue, and animal models. Investigating the progression of virus pathogenesis within individual cells and complex multicellular model systems, such as organoids, requires the application of various sample preparation and microscopy techniques in laboratories classified under biological safety levels (BSL) 2 and 3. 

The tasks of the TP MIA are to provide consultation, training, and support for scientists in microscope usage, data analysis, and quality assessment as well as efficient operation of imaging equipment at LIV. As a research-oriented unit, the TP MIA develops and adapts sample preparation and imaging techniques tailored to the specific scientific questions of its users. The technology platform specializes in integrative methods and workflows for correlative multimodal imaging. The TP MIA is associated with the LIV research department Structural Cell Biology of Viruses led by Prof. Dr. Kay Grünewald.

Available methods include transmitted light and fluorescence microscopy techniques, super-resolution approaches, as well as high-content and high-throughput imaging workflows allowing for multiplexed analysis. Additionally, a variety of (3D-) transmission and scanning electron microscopy methods are employed. The TP MIA not only provides its service to researchers at LIV, but also serves as imaging center of the Leibniz Center Infection (LCI) in the greater Hamburg area and closely collaborates with the Advanced Light and Fluorescence Microscopy (ALFM) and Electron Cryo-Microscopy (cryo-EM) facilities at CSSB. The TP MIA participates in the External Quality Assurance Scheme in EM Virus Diagnostics (EQA-EMV) annually conducted by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI). Furthermore, the technology platform is a Nikon Center of Excellence and maintains a collaboration with the electron microscope manufacturer Tescan as a reference lab.