We were able to support Daniela Hacker during her research stay in Heidelberg. Here you can read more about what she achieved at the EBML imaging center
Report
The primary goal of my research stay at the EMBL Imaging Centre in Heidelberg was to advance the final phase of my PhD project, which focuses on studying the co-localisation of synaptic proteins with the cytoskeleton in neurons across different genetic backgrounds. Specifically, I aimed to investigate the interaction between synapses and the cytoskeleton in wildtype and knock-in mouse models relevant to Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Hosted by the Advanced Light Microscopy technology development and service provision team led by Dr. Timo Zimmermann, my research involved using the tauSTED microscope, with technical assistance from Dr. Dietrich Walsh. I mainly used the STELLARIS 8 STED Falcon super-resolution microscope, known for its ability to acquire high-quality z-stack images without significant photobleaching, crucial for our co-localisation studies.
The experiments were designed to stain and image samples for synaptic, cytoskeletal, and cell-type-specific markers. This approach allowed us to compare the spatial organisation of the cytoskeleton in relation to synaptic inputs in different neuronal subtypes. The advanced capabilities of the STELLARIS 8 system, including fluorescence lifetime microscopy, enabled us to perform detailed 3D imaging, capturing fine structural interactions that would not be possible with conventional microscopy techniques.
The data collected during this research stay will likely prove to be crucial for the ongoing project. The findings are expected to provide new insights into the interactions of synaptic proteins with the cytoskeleton in neuronal cells, contributing to a better understanding of synaptic organisation in the context of neurodevelopmental disorders.
The stay also provided me with extensive hands-on experience in using state-of-the-art super-resolution microscopy, significantly enhancing my practical skills in advanced imaging techniques. This training will be highly valuable for my current and future research projects.
Overall, my research stay at the EMBL Imaging Centre was highly successful, meeting the planned objectives and significantly advancing the progress of my PhD thesis. I am grateful to the IZ LIST Travel Grant Committee for their generous support, which made this vital part of my research possible.