Cellular Visualization and Analysis

RMTSC实验室的一个主要研究重点是使用特定的分子探针来描述化学传感系统中的细胞组成和功能。这个核心的主要功能是促进参与研究的研究人员依靠面向解剖学的方法来探索化学感觉上皮或神经中心的组织、发育或功能，这些神经中心主要参与处理化学感觉信息。核心功能包括三个具体目标：1.支持和发展先进的组织学技术；2.共聚焦和电子显微镜；3.复杂解剖数据集的定量分析和可视化。尽管每个RMTSC实验室都将解剖学技术作为其整体研究计划的一部分，但并不是所有的实验室都有同等的机会或经验使用先进的方法，如双重标记、功能成像和电子显微镜。这一核心促进了实验室之间的专业知识共享，并向所有人提供只有一所参与大学才能使用的专门设施。核心不仅将为当地的RMTSC调查人员服务，而且还将作为一种资源 对于其他化学感觉研究人员，特别是在开发绘制大脑中化学感觉表示图的软件方面。

A major focus of research in the RMTSC laboratories is the use of specific molecular probes to delineate cellular composition and function in chemosensory systems. The major function of this core is to facilitate research of the participating investigators which relies on anatomically oriented methods to probe the organization, development or function of chemosensory epithelia or neural centers primarily involved in processing chemosensory information. The Core functions are encompassed by 3 specific Aims: 1. Support & Development of advanced histoiogical techniques 2. Confocal and Electron Microscopy 3. Quantitative Analysis and Visualization of Complex Anatomical Data Sets. Although each of the RMTSC laboratories utilizes anatomical techniques as a part of their overall research program, not all laboratories have equal access or experience in using advanced methodologies such as dual-labeling, functional imaging and electron microscopy. This Core facilitates sharing of expertise among the laboratories and makes available to all, specialized facilities available only at one of the participating Universities. Not only will the Core serve the local RMTSC investigators, but it will also serve as a resource for other chemosensory researchers especially in regards to development of software for mapping chemosensory representation in the brain.