MRI: Acquisition of a LSM710 Laser Scanning Confocal Microscope to Enhance Plant Research and Training at the University of North Texas

University Of North Texas, Denton TX

Investigators

Abstract

This MRI award funds the acquisition of a LSM710 laser scanning confocal microscope to support research and training in plant signaling at the University of North Texas by providing imaging capabilities that are required for molecular and biochemical studies at the cellular and sub-cellular levels. In addition, the confocal microscope will enhance research and training in developmental physiology, eco-toxicology, neurobiology and microbiology. The LSM710 will come equipped with a 34-channel spectral detector that will facilitate studying the in situ expression pattern of genes, intracellular protein localization and protein-protein interactions, changes in Ca2+, reactive oxygen species and sugar fluxes, and macromolecular dynamics. Broader Impacts: The LSM710 will benefit undergraduate and graduate students and post-docs by providing them training in the application of imaging technology for research and development. The confocal microscope will also provide opportunities to encourage and broaden the participation and training in the Life Sciences of underrepresented minorities, high school-aged students and future secondary teachers through the McNair program, the Teach North Texas program, the Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science, the Honors College, the NSF S-STEM supported (#0807128) Fostering Outstanding Cohorts in Undergraduate Science (FOCUS) Scholarships program, and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute Undergraduate Science Education program at the University of North Texas. The LSM710 will support research by these students. The instrument will positively impact the environment and society by supporting research on the discovery, function and application of signaling mechanisms in plants, which will augment sustainable agriculture, industry and renewable natural resources.