Imaging Research Core

Core Summary Glycans participate in many cellular properties, including cell structure, cell-cell recognition, protein trafficking, and protein-protein interaction. Changes in glycan dynamics can considerably affect cellular function and human health. Advanced imaging techniques are a vital part of an integrative approach to understanding the roles of glycans in health and disease. These techniques preserve the spatial context of the chemical, structural, and physiological responses to changes in glycans. Moreover, several powerful approaches in confocal microscopy, including FRET, FRAP, and FLIP, permit highly quantitative and sensitive measures of molecular dynamics within living cells. These measures will help researchers understand glycans' fundamental effect on cellular function. Moreover, electron microscopy can provide detailed information about the many cellular functions including the intracellular location and number of vesicle pools, and the structure and intergrity of extraceullar matrices. The central goal of this proposal is to bring the ability to employ advanced imaging techniques to the GlyCORE investigators in their diverse research programs. This goal will be accomplished in three aims: 1) support the GlyCORE investigators in using advanced microscopes and assist them in developing new imaging techniques; 2) support the GlyCORE investigators in preparing samples for imaging and in developing new techniques in sample preparation; and 3) develop an extensive training program to develop expertise and awareness of new methods in imaging and image analysis. This proposal will further transform research in the glycosciences at the University of Mississippi by providing access to advanced instrumentation, expertise, and training in using these imaging systems.