The mission of the WashU DDRCC is to advance research on the pathophysiology of and host-environment interactions in digestive diseases. Tissue imaging and image analysis techniques are essential tools for visualizing the spatial relationships of different cell types, and studying cellular components in the liver and gastrointestinal tract. State-of-the-art histologic, immunohistochemical, tissue imaging and image analysis are required for studies of human GI and liver disease and animal-based human disease models. AITAC personnel have extensive expertise in morphologic analysis and imaging of digestive tissues. The AITAC provides comprehensive histologic and immunohistochemical support, advanced microscopic imaging and image analysis services in an efficient and highly cost-effective manner.
The AITAC has two Components. The Tissue Analysis Component performs animal and human tissue embedding, sectioning, staining, and immunohistochemical analyses, and provides training in all services.
The Advanced Image Analysis Component provides access to and training in routine light, fluorescent and inverted fluorescent microscopy, quantitative image analysis, and access to in vivo imaging utilizing an investigator-built 2-photon microscope with complete image support for live cell and in vivo organ and tissue imaging,
The Tissue Analysis Component and most of the equipment for the Advanced Image Analysis Component (light and fluorescence microscopes) reside in a large lab in the Clinical Sciences Research Building (CSRB) North Tower (room 924) which has been recently renovated to provide a separate light-controlled room for microscopy only.
The In Vivo Imaging Core (IVIC) directed by Mark Miller, PhD, houses the 2-photon microscopy facility, located in the CSRB room 4448, a three minute walk from room 924.
AFFILIATIONS
Digestive Disease Research Core Center (DDRCC)