Light imaging equipment to support DOD-related biophysics research and education..
Abstract
Research into the biophysical foundations of life processes occurs across scales. Arguably, the most significant of all scales for establishing fundamental biophysical understanding is the range from nanometers through microns because this molecular scale is the interface between biology and chemistry. In other words, this scale defines the interface between life and nonlife. Though many instruments and approaches can probe processes at this scale, some of the most effective, informative, and (literally) illuminating involve light microscopy. As such, it is essential for biophysics researchers to have access to cutting - edge light microscopy equipment; it is similarly important for trainees to gain experience with this equipment so that they will be properly prepared for future careers. Towards these ends, we propose a suite of upgrades to an existing shared light microscope housed in the PI s lab. As part of this equipment, we propose a new micropatterning-microfabrication instrument that will be attached to this microscope. Relevance to AFSOR and DOD goals- While the proposed microscope upgrades will sustain and enhance research capabilities of the PI and other faculty performing DOD-related research with this instrument, the proposed microfabrication device will establish new research capabilities to support DOD-related research across the Notre Dame campus. To promote workforce development, we will integrate both theory-based and hands-on training related to the proposed equipment into graduate courses taught by the PI and other Notre Dame faculty. Requested equipment- The requested upgrades to the epifluorescence-TIRF microscope in the Goodson lab (shared with others in the Department and wider University) include a new EMCCD camera, 60x TIRF objective, and fluorescence light source, all to replace aging equipment, as well as computer and software upgrades. These upgrades will not only ensure enduring functionality of this instrument essential for ongoing AFOSR-funded research in the PI s lab, but they will also facilitate ongoing-planned DOD-related projects in a colleague s lab by enabling experiments involving near-IR excitation-emission. In addition, we request addition of a photoactivation-FRAP module and associated laser to extend the capabilities of this microscope, which would greatly facilitate components of the PI s ongoing AFOSR-funded project and its planned offshoots. Finally, we propose purchase of the Alveole PRIMO microfabrication-micropatterning device, to be placed on the Goodson lab microscope. This device will open significant new avenues for AFOSR-related research in the PI s lab and DOD-related research of others across campus by dramatically reducing the barriers for designing, manufacturing, and using micropatterned surfaces and microfabricated devices. Many institutions with one PRIMO device have ended up purchasing several, highlighting their utility (examples include UCSF, University of Wisconsin, and The Rockefeller). However, there are a s yet no PRIMO devices in Indiana, highlighting the potential of the proposed equipment to expand research capabilities locally and perhaps even regionally.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 07, 2024
- Source ID
- FA95502310655
Entities
People
- Holly Goodson
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Notre Dame