Light Microscopy Core

National Heart, Lung, And Blood Institute

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

In the past year, the NHLBI Light Microscopy Core (LMC) has played a critical role in advancing intramural research at NIH by providing investigators with advanced imaging technologies, expert training, and analytical support. The facility contributed to discoveries in basic biology, disease mechanisms, and translational applications, while supporting the vast majority of NHLBI-DIR laboratories and collaborating with several other NIH institutes. These efforts highlight the LMC’s function as both a specialized facility for NHLBI researchers and a shared scientific resource for the broader NIH community. The LMC operated and maintained 22 advanced microscopes located in NIH Buildings 10 and 50, supported by high-performance image-processing workstations and custom-developed analytical tools. This infrastructure allowed researchers to capture and analyze complex datasets with precision and reproducibility. In the past year, the core also collaborated with or assisted at least 110 researchers, including more than 60 students, providing hands-on training and direct technical support. By combining access to cutting-edge tools with dedicated mentoring, the LMC has strengthened both scientific output and workforce development, ensuring that new and established investigators alike can leverage advanced imaging for their research. The facility introduced new microscope technologies, improved and updated the capabilities of several existing instruments, and expanded its integration of AI-based image processing tools, which have rapidly become essential for handling increasingly large and complex datasets. These upgrades have enhanced data analysis, improved efficiency, and broadened the types of scientific questions that can be addressed through imaging. Importantly, the LMC made significant contributions to every element of its mission, from enabling independent investigator-driven work through training, to fostering collaborations, to advancing imaging methodology and analysis across NIH. The LMC is led by Dr. Christian A. Combs (Director) and Dr. Xufeng Wu (Deputy Director), with Dr. Daniela A. Malide having just recently retired after many years of service as a team member. Staff members are not only providers of training and technical expertise but also recognized contributors to the field of microscopy. In 2025, Dr. Combs was part of a team awarded the NIH Director’s Award for AI-based image analysis, underscoring the facility’s leadership in innovation. Over the past year, core staff were authors on at least 20 peer-reviewed publications, presented their research at several scientific meetings, and served on NIH committees addressing scientific review panels, scientific planning, and IT infrastructure. These activities reflect the staff’s deep engagement in the scientific mission of NIH, extending beyond daily operations of the facility. In addition, Dr. Combs’ authored publications from 2024 and those completed so far in 2025 are included in the bibliography of this report, documenting the LMC’s ongoing contributions to the published scientific record. Collectively, these accomplishments demonstrate the LMC’s tangible impact during 2024–2025. The core supported the majority of NHLBI-DIR laboratories, operated and maintained 22 microscopes, updated key capabilities, and worked directly with over 110 researchers, including more than 60 students. It contributed to more than 20 peer-reviewed publications, brought forward new technologies, presented results nationally, and supported NIH-wide initiatives through committee service. These outcomes highlight the LMC’s dual role as both an essential service provider and a recognized leader in imaging science. Looking forward, the LMC is committed to building on this momentum by expanding technical capabilities and analytical approaches, with a strong emphasis on AI-driven image analysis, custom workflows, and next-generation microscopy platforms. These investments will ensure that the facility continues to meet the evolving needs of the NHLBI and the broader NIH research community, reinforcing its position as a vital hub for discovery, training, and innovation.