Core Grant for Vision Research

Project Summary.
The Vision Center Core at Washington University serves a large and diverse group of clinicians and basic
scientists studying the biology and pathology of the visual system. In partnership with the Department of
Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, the Vision Center Core will achieve three main goals. First, it will provide
NEI-funded researchers (and others directly involved in vision science) with access to state-of-the-art
instrumentation and technical support to enhance their individual research efforts. Second, it will enhance the
environment for vision research at Washington University by fostering collaborations and attracting talented
scientists to the field. Third, the Center Core will support the career development of the next generation of
vision scientists. These goals will be achieved by provision of four Resource Cores, supported by an
Administrative Core. Together they will provide the following services:
1. An Imaging Core will provide technical support in the preparation of ocular tissue for anatomical
analysis. The core supports immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridization. Core investigators have
ready access to confocal and multiphoton microscopes and OCT imaging.
2. A Visual Function Testing (VFT) Core will provide expertise, instrumentation, and training on
equipment used to quantify visual performance in mice and other model systems. ERG, VEP and
optomotry analysis are supported.
3. A Biostatistics & Bioinformatics Core (BBC) will provide statistical and methodological expertise in
study design, assuring the validity of statistical analyses and reported results. Support is now provided
for analysis of large data sets, such as those generated in the course of genomic or RNA sequencing
experiments.
4. A Molecular Genetics Core will provide customized services for the production of transgenic and
knockout mice using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Assistance is also provided with design and production
of gene targeting constructs, viral vectors, IVF services, and sperm/embryo cryopreservation.
Provision of these support services and resources will greatly enhance the research capabilities of
investigators at Washington University and facilitate collaboration among new and established vision scientists.

Grant Number: 5P30EY002687-46
NIH Institute/Center: NIH
Principal Investigator: Steven Bassnett