Enabling visualisation of cells in action
Numerous advances in high-resolution imaging have shed light on cellular structure and function at the microscopic and even nanoscopic level.Dynamic molecular imaging is one of the most powerful ways to get a handle on normal and pathological cellular mechanisms. The Ernst Moritz Arndt University (EMAUG) in Germany is establishing that capability with EU-funding of the project ENVISION (Enhancement of research competitiveness in molecular imaging at the Ernst Moritz Arndt University of Greifswald). EMAUG established its Baltic Magnetic Resonance Imaging Centre in 2004. It has grown to include eight institutions covering neurology, gastroenterology, cardiology, anatomy and cell biology, human genetics, immunology, pathophysiology and pharmacology. Despite the dedication and scientific potential of EMAUG staff, the University is challenged by a paucity of financial resources, infrastructure and high-tech training. This in turn led to further difficulty in attracting more funding and forming high-level collaborations. With EU support, EMAUG purchased the multi-photon microscopy system required for dynamic molecular imaging that has now been installed at the new medical campus. Incoming and resident scientists were trained by the microscope manufacturer as well as by external experts. Six of the eight institutions at EMAUG visited labs of strategic partners at European universities. Partners also came to EMAUG to share knowledge and expertise, guiding work on the new set-up. The team held two international workshops, one in May 2012 and the other in September 2013. ENVISION is well on its way to establishing EMAUG as a leader in the exciting field of dynamic molecular imaging. These eight research groups successfully met their scientific goals, as evidenced by 16 publications in peer-reviewed international journals. The resulting increase in international visibility should also ensure greater access to funding and global recognition. ENVISION activities have facilitated further joint projects and enhanced EMAUG competitiveness. Besides scientific advances in medical research, growth of EMAUG should also promote regional development that will benefit the local population of Pomerania.
Keywords
Molecular imaging, living cells, cellular mechanisms, research competitiveness
