Two-photon microscope with integrated photostimulation and electrophysiology modules

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We here apply for a two-photon microscope with integrated photostimulation and electrophysiology modules for neuroscientific and cardiovascular research at the Institute of Physiology of the University of Würzburg. A central field of application is the analysis of neuronal network dynamics and synaptic processes using Ca2+-sensitive indicators. Other scientific topics to be addressed by the proposed microscope include the effects of natriuretic peptides on coronary microcirculation as well as the physiology and pathophysiology of megakaryocytes and platelets. A guiding principle of the proposed research projects is the consideration that physiological processes can only be adequately understood in the context of their three-dimensional structure. To this end, the system is equipped with a resonance-galvanometer-galvanometer scanner and a fast piezo actuator in order to enable measurements of biological processes at high temporal and/or spatial resolution even in multiple optical sections. Optogenetic methods can be integrated via a dedicated photostimulation module. The system also allows combined electrophysiological (patch-clamp) and optical recordings to be performed. The proposed microscope has a modular design, which enables optical-electrophysiological applications in both living animals in vivo and in vitro preparations. The requested device will also be made available to other scientists at the University of Würzburg and the University Hospital of Würzburg. Due to its unique technical features, the proposed two-photon microscope will open up new possibilities for live-cell imaging and thus make an important contribution to strengthening biomedical research in Würzburg.