Fluorescence cameras for multispectral, single-molecule imaging

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The proposed instrumentation (2 cameras) will permit multispectral and single-molecule fluorescence imaging on a specialized microscope present in the applicant's laboratory. Current functionalities of the microscope include the ability to record ion channel currents from cells or single channels, simultaneously with high-resolution imaging, and collection of multispectral data from brightfield samples or extremely intense fluorescence. The cameras requested here represent two items: an upgrade to the existing multispectral system that will permit multispectral imaging from ordinary fluorescent samples; and a new camera that will permit low-noise, ultrasensitive fluorescent detection of fluorescence from single molecules. These instruments will be used to understand the photophysics of the interactions between fluorescent semiconductor nanoparticles (quantum dots) and living cells; this understanding will allow us to make biosensors for intracellular processes at the nanoscale as well as to target specific cell areas for the delivery of therapeutic agents.