Thursday, November 21, 2024
11/21/2024
Abstract: A critical challenge of multi-drug resistance (MDR) in cancer treatments calls for innovative approaches in understanding cell death mechanisms, essential for developing new anti-cancer therapies. Traditional drug discovery processes, burdened by high costs and durations of 10-15 years, demand efficient advancements. Our initiative focuses on the development of a novel, cost-effective multimodal microscope, integrating high-resolution imaging capabilities to observe both morphological and biochemical changes in live cells. This advancement aims to accelerate the drug discovery timeline by providing insights into non-apoptotic cell death mechanisms crucial for evaluating new anti-cancer drugs. Central to our approach is the hypothesis that incorporating fluorescence imaging into a holographic microscope will allow for the direct visualization of biomolecules, enhancing the identification of cell death processes and refining drug screening models. Objectives include enhancing an existing holographic microscope with multimodal imaging for detailed cell analysis and integrating this technology with tumor-on-chip models for personalized therapy assessments. A pivotal aspect of our research is the emphasis on "point of learning" (POL) microscopy modules, designed to democratize access to advanced laboratory techniques among undergraduate students, particularly from underrepresented groups. This initiative aims to supply students with compact, multimodal microscopes, facilitating hands-on experience and engagement in cutting-edge research from their homes. By focusing on inclusive education and practical skills development, we aspire to inspire a diverse new generation of researchers equipped with the tools to tackle future healthcare challenges. Our program supports extended biomedical research projects, offers publication opportunities, and provides unrestricted access to lab resources and the principal investigator. This approach aims to develop practical research skills, promote diversity and inclusivity, and encourage future healthcare careers among minority populations, thereby making a significant contribution to DEIA in biomedical research.
HHS’ Tracking Accountability in Government Grants System (TAGGS) website provides access to detailed descriptions of grants, loans, aggregated direct payments and other types of financial assistance awarded by the HHS Operating Divisions (OPDIVs) and the Office of the Secretary Staff Divisions (STAFFDIVs).
