Versatility of Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy in Aquatic Research

Title:	Versatility of Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy in Aquatic Research
Category:	Miscellaneous
Date:	01. June 2010, 10:30 -
Venue:	Eawag Dübendorf
	Forum Chriesbach C20
Speaker:	Dr. Thomas R. Neu
Leader:	Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research
Organisation:	UFZ, Magdeburg, Germany
Download:	as calendar event

Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) has been established as an invaluable tool in many biological research areas.  With respect to aquatic research, CLSM allows 3-dimensional multichannel in situ imaging of e.g. fully hydrated living interfacial microbial communities.  Nevertheless, most research groups do not take fully advantage of the potentials available by CLSM in combination with fluorescence techniques.  In this presentation the versatility of laser microscopy is briefly demonstrated with focus on sample types and properties, staining options, CLSM imaging modes and digital image analysis.  With state of the art instruments, laser microscopy data sets together with other analytical results maybe employed for understanding biological structures and processes in aquatic habitats.