The Mississippi INBRE Imaging Core provides access to a Leica SP8 confocal microscope. This microscope has four LED lasers (405nm, 488nm, 552nm, and 638nm) for full visible spectrum illumination. It has three detector channels, two of which are hybrid PMT/APD for the greatest sensitivity and spectral range. It is capable of both conventional confocal scanning and resonant scanning for rapid low light illumination imaging, which isideal for live specimens. It also has a Hamamatsu Flash camera for ultrafast acquisition. It is equipped with an automated motorized stage with upgraded software for expanded view image stitching options, 3D modeling, and FRET. The scope is also capable of software-based super resolution for sub-200nm object visualization. Additionally, the microscope is outfitted with an Okolab CO2 chamber for long term mammalian tissue culture imaging.
The addition of the Leica SP8 confocal microscope to the Mississippi INBRE Imaging Core will allow USM investigators, as well as researchers throughout the state of Mississippi, access to one of the most complete imaging systems in the region. Training and access for the instrument is provided free of charge by Mississippi INBRE. Addition of this advanced and powerful confocal microscope will enhance the quality and scope of biomedical research in the state of Mississippi.