Inactive
Notice ID:NIAID_JA_2104443
The Research Technologies Branch (RTB), Biological Imaging Section (BIS) offers investigators specialized support for advanced biotechnology research. RTB provides access to state-of-the-art research ...
The Research Technologies Branch (RTB), Biological Imaging Section (BIS) offers investigators specialized support for advanced biotechnology research. RTB provides access to state-of-the-art research technology, scientific expertise, and technical support to enhance the research efforts of all NIAID intramural investigators. The Biological Imaging Section (BIS) of RTB, provides expertise, instruction, and instrumentation in optical microscopy to all NIAID investigators and therefore, has a history of providing novel technologies when they become available. A Leica Stellaris confocal microscope is required to replace an existing SP5 confocal microscope that has become outdated. The current system software on the SP5 MP cannot be updated to the current LASX control program. It is at least 4 years out of date. The computer is running an out-of-date Windows operating system and cannot be upgraded to Win10. The current system has only a 2 channel RLD detector, while 4 channels are needed for current projects. This greatly limits the use of the instrument for current NIAID investigators. The new instrument will be based on a white light laser with expanded excitation range of 440-790nm allowing the use of a much wider range of probes. The new detectors are twice as sensitive, so low light experiments will be possible. The new state-of-the-art equipment has modern imaging capabilities, including more sophisticated equipment and analysis software, which is required to pursue and finalize advanced research projects. Part of the requirement is the need for compatibility with existing Leica software and equipment that is currently used by Program. This Stellaris 8 microscope will be involved in several COVID-19 research projects that includes analyzing various types of cells infected with COVID-19 in potentially hazardous (e.g., BSL3) conditions.
