Cellular scale investigations of models of diseases in situ and in fixed tissue.
The 2PFM Facility specializes in high-resolution multi-modal insights into the living brain using preclinical models. In vivo imaging and electrophysiology are used to explore brain function at the cellular and network levels.
The facility features cutting-edge multiphoton microscopy with integrated photostimulation and advanced Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy (FLIM) / Phosphorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy (PLIM) capabilities—enabling real-time collection of neuronal and vascular activity, as well as metabolic and oxygenation changes.
Complementary electrophysiology setups include multi-channel microelectrode arrays (MEAs) and precision amplifiers for recording local field potential and multi-unit activity (MUA).
The lab also offers high-frame-rate (HFR) micro-ultrasound imaging for non-invasive visualization of cerebrovascular structure and blood flow, plus rapid whole-organ tissue clearing with SmartBATCH+ for 3D imaging using light sheet microscopy.
The integrated platform delivers powerful, multi-modal insight into the living brain—ideal for preclinical neuroscience research.
- Multiphoton microscopy
- Metabolic imaging
- In-vivo electrophysiology
- Micro-ultrasound imaging
- Tissue clearing
- Stereotaxic surgery
- Life sciences, pharmaceuticals and medical equipment
Specialized labs and equipment
| Equipment | Function |
|---|---|
| Evident Scientific Olympus FVMPE-RS multiphoton microscope | Deep imaging of biological specimens. |
| ISS inc. FLIM/PLIM Upgrade Kit | Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging (FLIM) and Phosphorescent Lifetime Imaging (PLIM) photon counting detectors for metabolic and oxygenation imaging with VistaVision acquisition software. |
| A-M Systems Model 3600 16-Channel Extracellular Amplifier | Electrophysiology rig with local field potential and multi-unit activity recordings. |
| MEA (microelectrode array) microprobes and Neuropixels 1.0 and 2.0 electrophysiology probes | Electrophysiology rig to record and stimulate neurons extracellularly in-vivo. |
| A-M Systems Model 3000 AC/DC Differential Amplifier | Electrophysiology rig for multi-unit recordings such as of EEG and evoked potentials. |
| Molecular Devices MultiClamp 700B microelectrode amplifier | Electrophysiology amplifier for intracellular/extracellular recordings. |
| LifeCanvas Technologies SmartBATCH+ electrophoretic tissue-processing device | Delipidating and immunolabeling of biological tissue samples. |
| FUJIFILM VisualSonics Vevo 2100 Micro Imaging System | Capabilities include power Doppler for blood flow; 3D mode imaging; and high temporal acquisition M-Mode. |
| Narishige stereotaxic instruments | Allows for selective targeting and modulation of brain regions in vivo. |
| TDT 32 channel EPHYS neural recording system | Electrophysiology rig for stimulation pattern delivery with neural signal recording. |