Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

Need, urgency and suitability - My research program centres on examining ion and large pore channels in excitable cell types including neurons and cardiomyocytes. With all the tools and expertise to engineer and derive excitable cell types, my lab currently lacks the infrastructure necessary to examine the electrophysiological properties of these cells. Thus, I am requesting funds to purchase a multiwell microelectrode array (MEA). I have searched across campus and have found no automated multiwell MEA system with the capacity for high-speed electrical recording of cells in culture for extended periods of time. The automated multiwell MEA provides a flexible platform for evaluating various electrophysiological parameters across a wide range of samples from single cells to entire live zebrafish. With a built-in incubator, we can also record our samples for hours or days without disturbing them to catch rare perturbances in the electrophysiology of our samples. It is my hope that the ease and accessibility of the MEA equipment will attract new users, expand research capabilities and strengthen the NSERC-funded program of dozens of researchers across campus. Primary Applicant, Dr. Jessica Esseltine - My lab uses cutting-edge techniques in cell and molecular biology including CRISPR-Cas9 genetic engineering of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and 3D organoid culture. Every single project in my lab evaluates cell-cell communication in cells and tissues and this MEA system will positively impact my entire research program. Importance of the equipment for the training of HQPs - I take my role as a mentor and advocate very seriously and my previous HQP have all continued on to excellent careers. Part of this success has been developing highly sought-after skills in my trainees including iPSC culture, CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, advanced microscopy and others. Understanding the electrical properties of excitable cells is ubiquitous in research environments and is a core skill that is portable to a wide range of fields within both academia and industry. Thus, the knowledge and techniques that our trainees will learn with the MEA system are absolutely essential for the success of our HQP across a wide variety of disciplines, and will improve their marketability in the workforce. Equity, diversity and inclusion - All but one of my trainees has identified as a member of an equity-seeking group. I strongly believe that we must actively seek out equity-deserving individuals, provide them with supportive working environments and accept alternative accomplishments and achievements not traditionally highlighted on a CV. Diverse viewpoints and lived experiences can stimulate discussion, lead to novel ideas and help generate creative solutions to our most pressing societal issues and ultimately strengthen our science.