Technology Network Minflux Nanoscope
The MINFLUX nanoscope platform provides the life sciences community at Heidelberg University with the most advanced possibilities in fluorescence super-resolution microscopy in optical structural biology, subcellular spatial proteomics and dynamics. The MINFLUX nanoscope can resolve the position of single fluorophores in 3D with up to 2 nm precision. Furthermore, it can resolve fluorophore dynamics with a temporal resolution on the order of hundreds of milliseconds.
The platform provides guidance on optimal sample preparation, troubleshoots and conducts MINFLUX experiments, and assists with data analysis. If researchers wish to conduct their projects independently, we offer training in MINFLUX imaging and tracking and the corresponding data analysis methods. The platform’s objective is to stay at the forefront of developments in the field by testing new dyes and exploring novel super-resolution microscopy applications relevant to research on campus.
Project request
Please contact the facility head via email to arrange a personal meeting for an initial project discussion. The platform also offers a free of charge MINFLUX pilot experiment to assess project feasibility.
Who can become a user?
Internal users
All researchers affiliated with Heidelberg University may conduct research using the MINFLUX nanoscope either through contract research services or by receiving training to operate the instrument independently. Please refer to the user regulations document for details on applicable user fees and further information.
External users
The MINFLUX nanoscope is also available to external users, including researchers from other academic institutions and industry. Please consult the user regulations document for information on applicable user fees and additional details.
Equipment and services
Equipment:
The MINFLUX nanoscope platform comprises an Abberior MINFLUX fluorescence nanoscope equipped with 488 nm, 561 nm, and 640 nm MINFLUX laser lines. The system enables fluorescence-based subcellular structural biology with nanometer-scale spatial resolution, as well as single-molecule tracking with temporal resolution in the hundreds-of-milliseconds range. Experiments can be performed in vitro, in cells, and in tissue samples. The MINFLUX nanoscope is situated in a BSL-1 area to allow for living sample experiments. In addition, a fluidic exchange device (Aria, Fluigent) supports subcellular spatial proteomics measurements through an automated experimental workflow.
Services:
- Super-resolution microscopy project consultation and execution
- Support in sample preparation optimization for super-resolution microscopy
- Training in MINFLUX imaging, tracking and data analysis
- Development and implementation of project-specific data analysis pipelines
Contact
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| Dr. Charlotte Kaplan Email: charlotte.kaplan@bioquant.uni-heidelberg.de Universität Heidelberg Room 061 |
Selected publications
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Funding Resources
The MINFLUX nanoscope was financed by the European Union's fund for regional development (EFRE) -innovation and
energy change as part of the reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic (REACT-EU).
Co-Funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR) and the Ministry of Science Baden-Württemberg within the framework of the Excellence Strategy of the Federal and State Governments. Additionally, seed funded by Heidelberg University, supported by CIID, COS, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, IPMB, NIC, and ZMBH.
