Cellular Imaging Hungary Node expands expertise in advanced neurophotonics

The Euro-BioImaging Cellular Imaging Hungary Node has expanded its service portfolio with the addition of the BrainVisionCenter (BVC) in Budapest. Following a successful application through the 2026 Call for Node Upgrades, the facility now joins Euro-BioImaging, bringing unique expertise in advanced functional neuroimaging, optogenetics and optical manipulation technologies to researchers across Europe.

The Euro-BioImaging Call for Node Upgrades enables existing Nodes to strengthen their service portfolio by integrating new imaging facilities that complement their existing expertise. Applications undergo an independent scientific evaluation by the Euro-BioImaging Scientific Advisory Board, ensuring that every upgrade maintains the high standards of scientific excellence, technological innovation and user support expected across the infrastructure. The addition of BrainVisionCenter was one of six Node upgrades approved through the 2026 Call. 

A unique centre for functional neuroimaging

Located in Budapest, BrainVisionCenter is a world-class innovation hub dedicated to advancing neuroscience, vision restoration and therapies for neurodegenerative diseases through the combination of industrial engineering, AI-driven data science and molecular biology.

By joining Euro-BioImaging, BrainVisionCenter opens its specialised technologies to the international scientific community through the infrastructure's open access model. The facility significantly strengthens the capabilities of the Cellular Imaging Hungary Node in systems neuroscience, cellular physiology and translational life sciences, particularly for in vivo imaging in mouse models, with future expansion to marmoset models also foreseen. 

"BrainVisionCenter was established to push the boundaries of functional neuroimaging and to develop technologies that enable researchers to answer questions that were previously out of reach,” says Gergely Szalay, Senior biologist researcher at the Brain Vision Center. “Joining Euro-BioImaging allows us to share these capabilities with the wider scientific community. We are excited to welcome researchers from across Europe and to support ambitious projects that combine advanced imaging, optical manipulation and behavioural neuroscience."

Capturing brain activity in three dimensions

BrainVisionCenter specialises in fast three-dimensional in vivo functional imaging using custom-designed acousto-optic (AO) two-photon microscopes capable of high-speed, random-access volumetric scanning. These systems enable simultaneous recording and photostimulation of thousands of neurons or dendrites at subcellular resolution in awake rodents, allowing researchers not only to observe neuronal activity but also to manipulate specific neural circuits during experiments. 

One particularly distinctive capability is the facility's fully integrated, patented virtual reality (VR) behavioural system for mice. Synchronized with the 3D AO microscopes, this stereoscopic VR environment allows researchers to investigate complex behaviours such as navigation and decision-making while simultaneously monitoring the underlying neural network activity, providing an unprecedented window into how brain activity gives rise to behaviour. 

More than microscopy

Beyond its advanced imaging platforms, BrainVisionCenter provides a comprehensive technology ecosystem that supports researchers throughout their projects. Its Biological Chemistry Department synthesises high-quantum-yield caged neurotransmitters, including the exclusive iDMPO-DNI-GABA, optimised for deep-tissue two-photon uncaging experiments. At the same time, the Molecular Biology Department supports advanced optogenetics through custom adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector production, enabling highly specialised experimental workflows that combine imaging, optical manipulation and molecular tools within a single facility. 

This integrated approach was highlighted by the Euro-BioImaging Scientific Advisory Board, which recognised not only the facility's technological excellence but also the surrounding expertise and support services that make these advanced technologies accessible to researchers. The Board also noted the strong regional impact expected from the facility's unique specialisation in advanced functional neuroimaging. 

Strengthening the Euro-BioImaging network

The addition of BrainVisionCenter further strengthens the Cellular Imaging Hungary Node and expands Euro-BioImaging's portfolio in advanced neurophotonics and functional imaging. By making these highly specialised technologies available through open access, the upgraded Node will support cutting-edge research in neuroscience while also enabling applications in developmental biology, cell biology and translational life sciences. Together with the Node's existing expertise, the new facility offers researchers an even broader range of imaging technologies and scientific support through Euro-BioImaging.