Lightsheet Microscope

Temple Univ Of The Commonwealth, Philadelphia PA

Investigators

Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract: Three-dimensional imaging of large samples is becoming a vital technology for identifying complex cell migration patterns, vascular integrity, developmental cell patterning and neural circuit complexity, all essential components of research at Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple (LKSOM). To support these research efforts, this shared instrument application requests funds for a lightsheet microscope. This lightsheet microscope will be an important addition to the Imaging Core supported over the past 10 years by grant funding through Shriners Hospitals for Pediatric Research. The mission of the imaging core is to provide a full range of state-of-the-art imaging equipment, training, and technology at a cost-effective rate. The imaging core presently has a 2 confocal, 1 multi-photon, TIRF, stereological system, laser capture, and 3 wide-field epifluorescent scopes, with over 20 researchers at Shriners Research Center, LKSOM, and Temple University who have acknowledged this core in their publications and in over 45 federal or private foundation grants. The lightsheet microscope is an important and necessary addition to the imaging core by supporting high resolution 3D imaging not capable by our present imaging devices. It will have a fundamental and significant impact on currently PHS funded projects as well as biomedical discoveries disseminated through high impact publications. The need for a lightsheet microscope developed through interactions and collaboration with multiple investigators for the need of this technology to significantly enhance their current and future research efforts. Additionally, this shared instrument will also enhance our ability to recruit new faculty who have a critical need for 3D imaging for their research program. As with all high-end imaging instrumentation, individual labs have insufficient funds to purchase or maintain a lightsheet microscope. Therefore, it is highly relevant instrument to be shared by multiple investigators and supported by an established imaging core with 10 years of experience and funding, qualified to operate, manage and maintain this microscope.