Imaging & Spectroscopy Core

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Project Summary – Imaging and Spectroscopy Core Imaging is a major driver of discovery and translation in biology and medicine. The use of imaging and spectroscopic approaches can often provide insights that may not be available with other techniques that require sample processing. While an Imaging and Spectroscopy Core does not formally exist at the University of Arkansas, the key ingredients necessary to establish one are already present on campus. A range of optical microscopy and spectroscopy instruments are already available for use by other investigators, with several of these set up as service centers. These existing resources will be consolidated and expanded to establish an Imaging and Spectroscopy Core that will meet the research needs of the proposed Arkansas Integrative Metabolic Research Center (AIMRC), have long-term benefits for researchers at the University of Arkansas, and other campuses in the state and in this region of the U.S. The range of technologies available within the Core will allow project leaders to shed new light on cell and tissue metabolism, thus enabling novel discoveries as well as clinical translation of such discoveries. Close interaction between the Imaging and Spectroscopy Core and COBRE project leaders as well as the Data Science and Bioenergetics Cores will lead to new innovations in research methods that will benefit future COBRE investigators as well as the broader campus research community. Hands-on training in imaging technologies will be provided to Center members, the campus and biomedical researchers in Arkansas. The long-term goal of the Imaging Core is to develop and integrate advanced imaging approaches needed by AIMRC members and become fully independent of COBRE support by the end of Phase Ill. The short-term goal for COBRE Phase I is to provide state-of-the-art imaging techniques that can be incorporated into Center projects, develop new image analysis approaches in collaboration with project leaders and the Data Science Core that will support the long-term goal and provide support/educational opportunities to Center members. The specific aims of this proposal are to 1) Establish a state-of-the-art imaging and spectroscopy core at the University Arkansas that meets the needs of the COBRE project leaders and accelerates their progression to independence; 2) Identify and develop new applications of optical microscopy and spectroscopy on campus that synergize with the Bioenergetics and Data Science Cores and lay the foundation for long-term sustainability of the Center; and 3) Provide consultation and coordination, technical assistance and educational opportunities in support of experimental design, sample preparation, data acquisition and analysis, and preparation of high-quality figures for publications and grant applications related to imaging.