NCI/CCR/LRBGE Optical Microscopy Core

Authors

• TS Karpova
• DA Ball

Abstract

The Optical Microscopy Core is dedicated to fluorescence microscopy, based on confocal and wide-field imaging with superresolution. Fluorescence microscopy permits localization of single proteins or observation of cellular organelles within cells. Modern light microscopy is digitally enhanced, thereby facilitating visualization of dim objects, computerized image processing, and quantitative analysis. Although electron microscopy provides better resolution, fluorescence microscopy permits live cell analysis. This field has grown explosively due to the development of new fluorophores such as the GFP and other fluorescent proteins, and fast and sensitive imaging systems capable of detecting these markers. The Optical Microscopy Core is open to everyone within the NCI, and we also welcome collaborations with other NIH institutes or beyond. We operate state-of-the-art fluorescence microscopes that enable a broad spectrum of fluorescence imaging experiments. Core provides expert guidance and troubleshooting in the design, execution, interpretation and publication of these experiments. Core expertise runs the gamut from the basic fluorescence microscopy, such as dual label immunofluorescence, to the sophisticated superresolution, quantitative FRAP analysis, FRET, and time lapse imaging of cells in 2D or 3D, and to computational methods for removal of out of focus light (deconvolution). Staff expertise comes not only from helping users apply these various advanced techniques, but also from extensive involvement in the development of these technologies.

Scientific Focus Area: Research Support Services

This page was last updated on Friday, March 26, 2021