The Analytical Imaging Shared Resource offers several fundamental services, providing investigators with powerful and complementary tools to address key questions about the biology of cancer.
Confocal Imaging
Fixed slides as well as live cells and tissues in a variety of vessels can be imaged. Live cell imaging can be performed using OkoLab chamber with total CO2 and T control.
Animal imaging can be performed using SP5 Upright confocal system. Water-dipping lenses allow for intraocular imaging.
Example: XYZ image Dr. Pearse lab
Slide Scanning
Fluorescent and Brightfield slides, up to 100 slides per experiment.
Brightfield batch scanning of multiple slides at x20, no human hands-on time required for the duration of imaging
Example: Brightfield image of mouse brain Dr. Atkins lab
TMA Scanning
Tissue microarrays can be automatically scanned
Long-Term Imaging (weeks)
ESSEN IncuCyte allows for continual live cell imaging and analysis. Scratch wound assay can be easily performed in automated 96-well format.
Image Processing
Quantification, enhancement and background reduction
Example: Nerve termini automated quantification Dr. McCabe lab
Automated scanning was performed for stained mouse aortas and custom analysis was performed using FIJI NIH software. Counting is completely automated and is performed on the batch. Multiple parameters can be analyzed simultaneously (termini size, staining density, tissue area, etc.) Results output can be customized.
User Training
Lab members can be trained to use any core equipment within 1-2 imaging sessions at a per hour cost.
Consulting
Users can get assistance with their complex imaging experiments, including live cell imaging, FRET, time laps experiments, colocalisation imaging, you name it.
Training, consultation, and direct assistance to investigators using the facility also is available. In addition, the shared resource offers assistance to users who are developing and implementing protocols, as well as operating core equipment. Hands-on educational workshops to train graduate students and investigators are also available. In addition, the AISR hosts seminars to update researchers on its services.
To inquire about the Analytical Imaging Shared Resource’s services, contact Marcia Boulina, Ph.D., Director, at 305-243-8436 or by email at mboulina@miami.edu.