A Microscopy and Image Core has been a key, central resource throughout the history of this PPG.Since we have become more interested in the interplay between establishment of cell fate and geneexpression in the developing lung, we anticipate continued heavy use of this valuable resource. In addition,to providing assistance for histological techniques and analysis, we have added a flow cytometry and cellsorting component to this Core. This takes advantage of the wide availability of tagged monoclonalantibodies, acknowledges the power of this technique, and is now possible because of an institutional highspeed flow cytometry facility. Further, we have also developed the necessary expertise to facilitate our useof a newly available laser capture micro-dissection intsrument.This Core is designed to specifically provide: 1) expertise and consultation in the performance of varioushistological and flow-cytomtery based techniques 2) formal and practical hands-on training for PPGpersonnel and post-doctoral trainees in relevant techniques such as immuno-staining, in situ hybridization,image analysis, and flow cytometry data mining 3) management of key equipment and a budget for theirmaintenance 4) common supplies required for these procedures (paraffin, glass slides etc.) 5) anexperienced technician to manage core equipment, teach histological procedures, help standardize newmethods, and maintain lab protocols on our department computer server and 6) budgetary support forindividual investigator use of institutional instruments (high speed cell sorter and confocal microscope).This PPG has a long tradition of successfully employing immunohistochemistry and in situ hybiridization,and in developing new histological techniques for studies of lung development. This success is due to theefficient management of protocols, reagents, equipment, and the fact that there is daily oversight by the Coreby its Director. Within the Core, we now have 3 microscopes with computer software based imaging andanalytical capabilities for brighfield, phase, darkfield, and fluorescence microscopy. Further, there are 2institutional confocal instruments that we will use, and we have ready access to a high-speed cell sorter andanalytical cytometry device. Overall, we expect this Core to continue to be a key factor ensuring that thescientific goals of the individual projects will be achieved.
Showing the most recent 10 out of 92 publications
