Live cell imaging

Doel vak

This course will provide the student with theoretical and practical
knowledge to utilize emerging cellular and sub-cellular imaging
technologies in neuroscience.

Inhoud vak

Advances in light microscopy, digital image processing, and the
development of a variety of powerful fluorescent probes present
expanding opportunities for investigating the nervous system, from
synaptic terminals to networks in the brain. This intensive theoretical
and practical course will provide participants in-depth knowledge of
emerging imaging technologies. The primary emphasis of the
course will be on vital light microscopy. Students will learn the
principles of light microscopy, as well as use of different types of
electronic cameras, laser scanning systems, functional fluorophores,
delivery techniques, and digital image-processing software. In addition
to transmitted light microscopy for viewing cellular motility, the
course will examine a variety of molecular probes of cell function,
including calcium-sensors, voltage-sensors, photoactivatable
("caged") compounds, and exocytosis and vesicle trafficking markers.
Challenges in the combination of imaging and electrophysiological
methods will be covered.

Aanvullende informatie onderwijsvormen

This is a full time course. In the first two weeks we will address all
major live cell imaging techniques and their applications in a series of
lectures and Masterclass meetings with experts in the field. A mid-term
exam will test the obtained knowledge. The last 2 weeks will be devoted
to hands-on experiments in the lab in small groups. Students will
perform 2 imaging experiments under guidance of an experienced PhD-
student or Postdoc.

Toetsvorm

Oral group presentations of results experiments (50%) and Mid-term Exam
(50%). Students need to pass both parts (grade > 5.5) to obtain final
grade.

Vereiste voorkennis

1st year Master of Neurociences or equivalent. Course is also open to
2nd
year Master students from other courses and to non-VU neurosciences
students but ONLY if course is not filled-up by VU Master students (max.
capacity is 25 students).
Non-Neurosciences master students NEED to contact course
coordinator (Ruud Toonen r.f.g.toonen@vu.nl) with study program details
for eligibility check prior to
self enrolment.

Literatuur

Course coordinators will provide selected chapters from Live Cell
Imaging. A laboratory Manual. Editors: Goldman and Spector and a
selection of primary scientific papers at start of the course.

Aanvullende informatie doelgroep

2nd year Master of Neuroscience students.

Overige informatie

Maximum number of students is 25. Master of Neuroscience students will
have priority. Vacant positions (if any) will be filled on basis of
first come first serve but
ONLY after eligibility check.
For further information and application, please contact: Dr. R. Toonen
or Dr. R. Min
(r.f.g.toonen@vu.nl or r.min@amsterdamumc.nl)

Afwijkende intekenprocedure

Standard VU enrolment. Non-neuroscience master students need to contact
course coordinators with study program details for eligibility check
prior to self enrolment.