Leica Stellaris Confocal for a Campus-wide Shared Resource

Title: Leica Stellaris confocal for a campus-wide shared resource Lisa A. Cameron Project Summary/Abstract: This shared instrumentation grant is for a new Leica Stellaris 8 confocal microscope with fluorescence lifetime capabilities to advance biomedical research across many departments. To facilitate implementation and assistance, the system will be centrally located and managed by

the Duke University Light Microscopy Core Facility (LMCF). The advancements in technology of the Leica Stellaris 8 including the broad range white light laser, improved sensitivity and expanded wavelength detection range of the improved HyD detectors, and option for use of fluorophore lifetime information called “Tau-Sense” has made the Leica confocal the leading

confocal technology on the market. In addition to bringing new technology to Duke University researchers, this system will replace a sixteen-year-old Leica SP5 which is no longer covered by service contract. The LMCF is the only campus-wide light microscopy recharge facility on campus and has a 15-year history of supporting the Duke University community. Researchers

from Immunology, Biomedical Engineering, Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Neurobiology, and Pharmacology and Cancer Biology will specifically benefit from this Leica Stellaris 8 system. The user group and the LMCF staff has experience and expertise with similar Leica confocal models and fluorescence lifetime. The LMCF core staff has extensive expertise with

laser scanning confocal systems from Leica and other manufacturers and trained users are well prepared to effectively implement this method for an important array of basic and translational research including cell biology of endocytosis, development and behavior of cardiac myocytes, and potential treatments for pathogen infections. Each of the research projects will have human

health related impacts as outlined in the research plans. The new confocal microscope will integrate into the LMCF shared resource at Duke with a well-established and well-supported infrastructure for providing training, assistance and long-term support. The Duke University Office of Research will continue to provide substantial support for the new requested equipment

and ongoing support for the operation and advancement of the Light Microscopy Core Facility.