CORE--IMAGE ANALYSIS

University Of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The understanding of signal transduction processes governing lymphocyte differentiation and function require not only a delineation if the precise chain of biochemical events, but also determination of the spatial and temporal organization of the pathways. It is the purpose of the Imaging Core to provide support for the Principal Investigators in investigations in this regard. In general, the Core will provide advice, training and access to equipment essential for the acquisition and analysis of cell structure at the light microscopical level. The Core supports three broad categories of microscopic techniques: 1) identification of the subcellular distribution of molecules using conventional light and confocal microscopy; 3) three-dimensional reconstruction of immunofluorescentlabeled cells using assembly of confocal optical planes or deconvolution protocols; and 3) visualization of fluorescent fusion proteins cells. The last represents the most specialized and powerful technique available in the Core, as it allows the determination of co-localization of multiple signaling molecules in real time in living cells.