Versiti - Microscopic Imaging Core Lab | Versiti Blood Research Institute
 

Microscopic Imaging Core Lab

The Microscopic Imaging Core Lab provides researchers access to a variety of microscope systems. Core Lab staff train users and provide guidance with image acquisition and analysis.

Instrumentation and Applications

Different types of microscopes, microscope systems, microscope imaging and imaging microscopy and other available researcher resources.

 

Contact Information

L. William Cashdollar, PhD
Director, Core Laboratories
lwcashdollar@versiti.org
414-937-3847

Accreditations and Licenses

The Olympus FV1000MPE is equipped with five excitation lines: 488 nm and 515 nm, which originate from a multi-line argon laser; and 405 nm, 559 nm and 635 nm, which are produced by laser diodes. These excitation wavelengths cover a wide spectrum of fluorescent probes. A choice of six objectives (10x dry, 20x dry, 40x/1.3NA oil, 60x/1.2NA water, 100x/1.4NA oil and 40x/0.8NA water immersion) covers a wide magnification range that couples with an increased software zoom for whole slice to intracellular visualization. 

The Olympus FV1000 also computer-controls vertical focus in 0.01-micron increments to create multi-slice, 3D images. In addition to the confocal aspects, this instrument features a Mai Tai DeepSee infrared laser (range: 690-1040 nm) for multi-photon applications. Two Hamamatsu non-descanned detectors allow for two-color deep-tissue imaging.

Additionally, a 25x water immersion 1.05NA objective with enhanced instrument sensitivity for maximum multiphoton performance is available. This microscope enables researchers to perform standard confocal applications on fixed and live cells, as well as deep tissue and live animal imaging using the multi-photon capability. In addition, Versiti Blood Research Institute has a separate image analysis station equipped with MetaMorph (Premier 7.1).

The Nikon Ti2-E is an inverted, high-speed, motorized microscope for advanced imaging. Its major uses are for experiments using multidimensional imaging that combine multi-channel, multi-XY positions, Z-stacking, image stitching and time-lapse imaging. Objectives currently on the system include: 10x, 20x, 40x, 60x and 100x oil; and filter blocks including DAPI, GFP, mCherry and Cy5. It is equipped with a unique Perfect Focus System that helps users find their sample and automatically corrects focus drift in real time during a prolonged period of time-lapse imaging. Deconvolution is available in the software for noise measurement and removal. It has 2D and 3D object tracking capabilities. DIC components on the microscope enhance bright field imaging as well.

The Nikon TE200 with Hoffman modulation, inverted, is used for live cell cultures and prepared mounted slides. This microscope is outfitted with PLAN Fluor objectives 2x, 4x, 10x, 20x, 40x and 60x. Fluorescence images can be acquired using filter sets for Hoeschst, DAPI, FITC, Texas Red and Cy5. Images can be taken with either a Diagnostic Instruments SPOT RT color camera using spot advanced software or a Photometrics CoolSNAP ES camera using MetaMorph 6.1 software.

The ZEISS Lumar.V12 stereoscopic microscope is used for specimen dissection and analysis. It uses a 1.6x or 0.8x objective, allowing for high resolution of specimens and a great working distance. Fluorescence filter sets allow for the excitation of GFP, CFP and Rhodamine-stained samples. Images can be acquired using a 5-megapixel ZEISS Axiocam MRc 5 camera. Perform further image analysis using ZEISS AxioVision 4.5 software.

Marie Schulte, PhD
Imaging Specialist
mschulte@versiti.org
414-937-3857

L. William Cashdollar, PhD
Director, Core Laboratories
lwcashdollar@versiti.org
414-937-3847

Erin Yttre
Senior Research Technologist
erin.yttre@versiti.org
414-937-3842

 
Accreditations & Licenses
Versiti and its affiliates hold numerous accreditations and licenses, listed here for each Versiti affiliate.
 
Scientific Programs
Scientific research and training are important parts of Versiti’s mission. Our research programs involve basic and clinical scientists at Versiti Blood Research Institute.
 
Core Facilities & Services
Versiti Blood Research Institute provides a number of core facilities and services available to investigators, including the latest technology and equipment.
 
Versiti Blood Research Institute
Versiti Blood Research Institute investigators study blood disorders like hemophilia, blood cancers like leukemia, and other blood diseases.