EXC 1003 FF-2013-33 - Analyzing Leukocyte Extravasation by 4D Mathematical Image and Motion Analysis

Basic data for this project

Description

This project is focused on the cell mechanics of leukocyte extravasation in vivo, which is analyzed by 4D mathematical analysis of fluorescence live microscopy data in vivo. Leukocytes seem to take two different pathways to overcome the barrier of endothelial cell layers: 1.) they can move through the junctions between endothelial cells (paracellular) or 2.) through the body of endothelial cells (transcellular). By directly analyzing leukocyte extravasation in vivo we analyze whether the diapedesis of leukocytes differs depending on the type of leukocytes, the type of blood vessels or the type of tissue that is investigated. In addition, we want to analyze whether the mechanical constraints of leukocyte transmigration are different depending on which route of transmigration is used. Visual limitations of 4D fluorescence live microscopy data and a careful quantitative analysis of the experiments, require a sophisticated 4D mathematical modeling that is tailored to the needs of leukocyte transmigration and goes beyond commercially available 3D imaging and tracking software.