Microscopy and Cellular Imaging Core

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT
In Phases I and II, the Center for Microbial Pathogenesis and Host Inflammatory Responses (CMPHIR)
established and maintained a Research and Technical Advancement Core to fill experimental gaps in the
resources available in institutional cores maintained by the UAMS College of Medicine. A primary focus of the
Core was on Microscopy and Cellular Imaging, the goal being to facilitate the ability of CMPHIR investigators to
characterize the interaction between diverse microbial pathogens and specific host cells. Equipment purchased
to support this effort included a confocal microscope, a scanning electron microscope, and multiple instruments
for live cell imaging. Daily operations will be supervised by Dr. Karen E. Beenken, Director, who will be
responsible for maintaining these instruments in working order and training CMPHIR investigators, as well as
other UAMS investigators, on its proper use. To promote self-sustainability and maximize accessibility, Core D
instruments will be operated by the users themselves on a fee-for-access basis. This will allow users access to
these instruments at their convenience, including during non-working hours, and allow Core D to recover a
significant proportion of the costs, thereby ensuring the ability to upgrade and maintain the equipment in this
core as needed as we move forward into Phase III and beyond.

Grant Number: 5P30GM145393-04
NIH Institute/Center: NIH
Principal Investigator: Karen Beenken