Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

Our request for an Analytical Epifluorescence microscope will substantially increase the productivity of several groups in two units at the University of Saskatchewan, Biology and Anatomy/Cell Biology. This system will provide increased access to and enhanced capability for high resolution fluorescence imaging and analysis. This is essential for publication in high-impact journals. We use two epifluorescence systems, a confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) purchased in 2002, and upgraded for three additional types of analysis in 2005, and a basic epifluorescence microscope, purchased in 1989. Both are heavily used. Limited time on these instruments has sometimes adversely affected research progress by members of these groups. Need for fluorescence imaging is increasing as molecular genetic methods improve.  Each of the proposed systems produces high-resolution fluorescence images, with multiple focal level reconstruction and time-lapse imaging. Each costs a fraction of the purchase and operational costs of an entry-level CLSM. The lasers in a CLSM are expensive and have limited lifetimes: we have already replaced the $12k argon laser twice. Each of the proposed systems has a wider range of excitation wavelengths than is available with our CLSM, especially at wavelengths that are optimal for certain cell wall and DNA stains. The new system will be mounted on an upright microscope, to complement the inverted microscope on the CLSM, and will have a heated stage, which we currently lack. Access to high-resolution imaging with the addition of a third fluorescence system will allow for better use of the specialized features on the CLSM, that do not need to be duplicated. The upright format and heated stage will permit studies that currently are not possible.    In sum, purchase of a new Analytical Epifluorescence Microscope will facilitate increased research intensity in several groups at the University of Saskatchewan, by providing both enhanced access to new types of fluorescence imaging, and the ability to undertake temperature analyses. Consistent with this, our proposal has attracted matching funds from research units and individual faculty.