Christophe Place

Who is Christophe Place ?

"I was born in Vitry/Seine in Paris area in 1968. I studied at the University of Orsay Paris XI then Paris VI where I specialized in Physico-Molecular Chemistry. I completed my doctoral thesis in the inorganic chemistry field at the interface with biology. I worked on the synthesis and study of polyimidazole complexes of iron and copper, models of active metalloprotein sites under the direction of J-C Chottard. After a post-doctorate in biochemistry and molecular biology at New York University with W.T. Mcallister and at Pasteur Institute under the direction of H. Buc, I joined the Physics Laboratory (UMR5672) of the Lyon ENS in 2000. I continued research at the interface of Physics and Biology. My course allowed me to work in various environments (chemistry, biology, physical), enrich my scientific culture and develop a scientific activity at the interface of these areas."

 Dedication to ensure up to 3,5 months, stable blinking for dSTOM microscopy 

Researchers using dSTORM imaging were constantly constrained by the short lifespan and inconsistency of standard imaging buffers. The fluorescence signals would fade too quickly, limiting the potential for long-term observation and intricate analysis.

Christophe and his team, driven by his dedication to practical innovation, took on this challenge with a simple yet ambitious question: What if there was a buffer that could last up to several months after mounting, increases blinking events, stay stable, and significantly simplifies researchers workflow by limiting interruptions due to buffer renewals?

After countless experiments and refinements, the team developed EverSpark, a long-lasting buffer that revolutionizes dSTORM imaging. Designed to ensure stability over extended sessions, EverSpark provides researchers with the freedom to focus on their observations, confident in the reliability of their results.

EverSpark V2 – Pushing beyond limits with  green, yellow & far-red fluorophores

With the second version of EverSpark, the improvements are game-changing. In addition to yellow and red/far-red fluorophores, this version is also compatible with green channel fluorescence signals,  unlocking the potential for 3-colour dSTORM imaging. Blinking stability has been extended from two months to an incredible 3.5 months. The new formulation enhances blinking events, capturing even more crucial molecular details with greater precision. EverSpark V2 is not just an upgrade, it’s a testament to the power of continuous innovation in scientific research.