Services and Technical capabilities – Light Microscopy Facility

Information and Advice

Expert guidance on imaging techniques and experimental design to ensure optimal results for your research.

Training

Comprehensive theoretical and hands-on training in microscope operation, sample preparation, and data analysis, from basic concepts to advanced techniques.

Widefield Microscopy

Advanced widefield services including fluorescence, brightfield, polarized light microscopy, and DIC, with automated imaging capabilities.

Confocal Microscopy

High-resolution imaging of fluorescently labeled samples with multi-color imaging, time-lapse, and 3D reconstruction capabilities.

Super-Resolution Microscopy

High resolution imaging for insights into sub-cellular structures and dynamics beyond traditional microscopy limits.

Light Sheet Microscopy (MesoSPIM)

State-of-the-art mesoscale imaging with our MesoSPIM system, enabling fast 3D imaging of large samples with minimal photodamage. Perfect for developmental biology, neuroscience, and whole-organ imaging.

Image Analysis

Comprehensive analysis solutions for 2D/3D microscopy data, including quantitative analysis and publication-ready figures.

Imaging Technologies

Different modalities for different specimens.

Transmitted light imaging
Brightfield, darkfield, polarized light and DIC
Color imaging (eg H&E staining)
Widefield
scanning confocal
2 photon
spinning disk confocal

Advanced Capabilities

Live-cell imaging with widefield or spinning disk confocal microscope
Temperature, humidity and CO2 regulation
FRAP and Photoactivation/conversion
3D measurements and rendering

Analysis Capabilities (1)

Advanced Software Suite

Image processing, analysis and quantification
Object tracking and segmentation
Deconvolution software: Huygens, Zen, NIS elements, Imaris and FIJI
3D visualization and analysis: Amira (for advanced 3D reconstruction and analysis) and syGlass (for virtual reality visualization)

Analysis Capabilities (2)

3 high-performance workstations equipped with:

Powerful GPUs for rapid 3D rendering
Large RAM capacity for handling complex datasets
High-resolution displays for detailed image analysis

From Experiment Planning to Publication: User Support and Communication

The Light Microscopy Facility (LMF) provides comprehensive support throughout your entire research journey. Our partnership with users extends from initial experimental design through to publication. Our collaborative approach ensures optimal results at every step::

Initial Consultation

Expert guidance on microscopy techniques
Experimental design optimization
Strategic planning for your research goals

Training and Validation

Personalized theoretical and practical training
Hands-on instrument operation
Quality control and validation of imaging methods

Ongoing Support

Continuous communication throughout your project
Technical assistance when needed
Optimization of imaging parameters and protocols
Regular check-ins to ensure optimal results

Data Analysis and Publication

Support for image processing and analysis
Guidance on data presentation
Help with figure preparation for publications

Our commitment is to ensure all experiments meet the highest standards of quality and reproducibility while complying with relevant regulations and ethical guidelines. Through this structured workflow, we aim to maximize the success of your research projects.

Examples of projects completed

We have completed numerous projects for researchers across various fields of study. Our advanced equipment and skilled staff have enabled us to provide high-quality imaging and analysis services for a range of applications. Here are a few examples of the projects we have completed:

project one

Tissue Analysis and Protein Expression

Project highlight: “Developing a tissue-specific quantitative assay for protein expression in C. elegans using fluorescence microscopy and image analysis
Details: Development and application of O-propargyl-puromycin (OPP) assay
Publication: Cell Reports Methods, 2022
Key techniques: Confocal microscopy, tissue segmentation, quantitative analysis

project Two

Development Studies

Project focus: Live imaging and quantification of condensates in C. elegans germ granules
Techniques: Super-resolution imaging, multi-channel acquisition
Publications contributed to breakthrough research in developmental biology

project Three

Image Analysis

Custom scripts and automation for high-throughput analysis
Specialized workflows for deconvolution and 3D reconstruction
Advanced image processing pipelines

Contact fbonnet@mdibl.org today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your research goals. We look forward to working with you and unlocking the mysteries of the microscopic world together!