Spinning disk confocal microscope for live-cell imaging of pathogen-host cell interactions and biofilm development

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Our research groups study highly dynamic cellular and molecular processes occurring as part of the interplay between cells and pathogens, during the immune response and in the formation of biofilms. These processes occur at high speeds, but over periods that can range from several hours or days. To advance our studies, we have an urgent need for a microscope that can capture images of these processes with high spatial and temporal resolution. A microscope of these characteristics is not currently available at the University of Toronto, Scarborough campus. For this reason, we request funding to upgrade a pre-existing Leica DMI6000B inverted microscope into a confocal microscopy system that can fulfill our immediate requirements and long-term research. The proposed upgrade includes: a X-Light V2 Spinning Disk Confocal scanner head to be installed on our Leica DMI6000B inverted microscope, as well as a Light Diode Illuminator with seven laser lines. Importantly, the upgrade will include enclosing the microscope in a Chamlide HX acrylic incubator cage that will provide the appropriate Biosafety containment for live cell experiments with pathogens, toxins and cells. This will also be equipped with on-stage environmental controls, which is crucial for live cell imaging over long periods to ensure cell viability, as well as focal stability for imaging. The requested system will have an immediate positive impact on our research productivity and will substantially improve the training capacity and novel infrastructure exposure for High Qualified Personnel (HQP).**************