Microscopy and Imaging Analysis Core

PROJECT SUMMARY The Microscopy and Imaging Analysis (M&I) core is the major component of the vision research core at UCLA, with a majority of the research laboratories in the core user base projecting extensive usage. The M&I core facilities continue to be upgraded. Since moving into newly renovated dedicated core space, we have added major new equipment items within the past six years, including: a JEOL JEM 1400plus electron microscope, a Deltavision OMX super resolution microscope, a Nikon spinning disk confocal microscope (with SR capabilities), and, earlier this year, a new Leica scanning laser confocal microscope (stellaris 8) was purchased. In addition, the purchase of an Echo confocal microscope, designed for rapid imaging of large areas of tissue, has now been ordered. These microscopes provide users with state-of-the-art imaging. The M&I core is also equipped with facilities (ancillary equipment and staff support) that support use of the microscopes: 1) sample preparation, including the preservation of tissue to be studied in a fixed state, sectioning (from thick to ultrathin), and the preparation of live tissues for live-cell imaging; 2) extensive image analysis with a software suite, including Imaris. Thus, together with technical support in all aspects, the core provides users facilities, assistance, and training in sample preparation, imaging and image acquisition, and image analysis. The M&I core thus facilitates basic and preclinical research supported by NIH/NEI on UCLA campus by providing access to facilities, equipment, and technical skills that cannot be found in individual laboratories.