Technologies drive our discovery !
We employ a comprehensive set of immunological techniques - from molecular assays to in vivo models- to understand B cell biology and mechanisms in every level of biological complexity.
Our specialty
Ki Lab is specialized in single-cell imaging, applying this approach to detect lymphocyte signaling and behavior during early immune responses, cytoskeleton reorganization, and B cell receptor (BCR) signaling. This technique enables us to observe and analyze the molecular activities of immune cells at the individual cell level, providing not only high-resolution snapshots of cellular dynamics but also a powerful biological framework for understanding immune cell behavior in detail. By integrating these single-cell insights with in vivo interpretation, we bridge the gap between molecular-scale observations and the complexity of living systems, ultimately conducting in vivo experiments that are directly informed by our imaging findings.
In our research, we employ both confocal microscopy and total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy. Confocal microscopy allows for three-dimensional imaging of cells and tissues with high optical sectioning capability, making it ideal for visualizing spatial distribution of molecules within immune cells. TIRF microscopy, on the other hand, offers unparalleled sensitivity to events occurring near the cell membrane, enabling us to capture rapid and localized molecular interactions.
Taken together, single cell imaging—supported by advanced tools like confocal and TIRF microscopy—provides us with a complete A-to-Z workflow: from precise single-cell observation, to biological interpretation, and ultimately to the design and execution of meaningful in vivo experiments. This makes it an indispensable platform for advancing our understanding of immune cell function in both health and disease.
Confocal microscopy
Confocal microscopy is an advanced optical imaging technique that uses a laser light source and a pinhole to eliminate out-of-focus light, resulting in sharper, higher-resolution images compared to traditional microscopes. This allows for the creation of 3D images and detailed analysis of samples, particularly in biological research.
TIRF microscopy
Total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRF microscopy) is a specialized type of fluorescence microscopy that uses the phenomenon of total internal reflection to selectively illuminate and excite fluorophores in a very thin layer near a surface or interface. This technique is particularly useful for studying cellular processes and molecular interactions occurring at the cell membrane or other interfaces.
Data by Minhee Ham