Hertha Sponer College Methods Workshop

Hertha Sponer College Workshop (internal event, registration required)

HSC Bursting-the-Methods-Bubble Workshop “Automated patch-clamp aided protein engineering”

Description: Optogenetics is transforming the field of neuroscience and enabling new possibilities for medical treatments through light-mediated manipulation of electrically active cells expressing channelrhodopsins (ChRs). However, medical applications require highly robust tools that can deliver faster response and higher photocurrents at lower light intensities. Optimizing ChRs is a challenging process that requires functional characterization of multiple variants. In this hands-on workshop, we’ll be using the Opto-SyncroPatch 384, an automated planar patch-clamp device supplemented with suitable illumination devices that greatly increases throughput in ChR characterization. You’ll learn how to perform manual photocurrent measurements and subsequently take part in a demonstration on how to assess the properties of several ChR variants in automated patch-clamp measurements within a single experiment, which would normally take over a month of manual work. Additionally, we’ll provide a brief overview of the other exciting possibilities that automated highthroughput recording using Opto-SyncroPatch 384 opens up in ChR research. Join us to discover the latest techniques and advancements.

Schedule:
1 whole day course 3rd December, 2026, 8.30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Supervisors: Thomas Mager, MBExC Application Specilaist, HSC collegian Esther Grewe, HSC collegian Hannah Luksch, Institute for Auditory Neuroscience, UMG