Skip to main content

Refine your search

Polina Abushik and Nataliia Novosolova demonstrate work with different patch-clamp set ups during FinE eletrophysiology short course.

Researchers Polina Abushik and Nataliia Novosolova from FinE-UEF demonstrated work with different patch-clamp set ups in a compact laboratory environment to interested students.

Electrophysiology course in Kuopio highlighted new national core facility

A hands-on course held in Kuopio introduced students and researchers to the fundamental principles of electrophysiology, with a particular focus on applications involving human cells and tissues. The short course was the first national event organised under the new Finnish Electrophysiology Platform (FinE), which has been granted a core facility status by Biocenter Finland.

Advances in electrophysiology and human cell technologies reshape neuroscience

Recent advancements in human stem cell technologies and access to fresh human tissue, along with the integration of electrophysiology, are reshaping neuroscience research. High-resolution multielectrode array tools and high-sensitive voltage indicators enable scientists to precisely map and monitor electrical activity in cells, organoids and tissues. Together with powerful machine learning and computational modelling, these tools are opening new frontiers in understanding the electrical language of living systems.

FinE offers wider access to electrophysiology infrastructures

Electrophysiological experiments often rely on highly specialised, state-of-the-art equipment and skilled personnel, which is why access to them has traditionally been limited to research groups already possessing the necessary tools and expertise. In 2024, Biocenter Finland (BF) granted core facility status to electrophysiology infrastructures at three universities, establishing the BF–Finnish Electrophysiology Platform (FinE). This national platform is designed to break down technical and knowledge-related barriers by offering shared facilities, comprehensive training, and expert services to both academic and non-academic users – regardless of their prior experience in electrophysiology. FinE supports a broad range of applications and provides multilevel expertise, enabling users to design and conduct experiments across diverse in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo model systems.

The first FinE course sparked interest

The first joint FinE meeting and short course was hosted by FinE-UEF Core facility of in vitro and ex vivo electrophysiology and Professor Tarja Malm at the University of Eastern Finland in Kuopio. The course, titled “Electrophysiological Techniques to Measure and Interpret Human Neuron Functions”, took place on May 12–13, 2025, and also aimed to strengthen collaboration between core facilities and foster a dynamic network of neuroscientists and electrophysiology experts across Finland. Nearly 70 participants included students, faculty members and visitors from the other two FinE core facilities, FinE-TAU at Tampere University and FinE-UH at the University of Helsinki. 

FinE short course in Kuopio.
Johny Pires from Axion BioSystems demonstrated their MEA system during FinE short course in Kuopio..
Johny Pires from Axion BioSystems demonstrated their MEA system, showcasing its ability to monitor dynamic neuronal electrical activity in real time – without the need for labels, dyes, or complex procedures.

Keywords