An advanced, high-throughput imaging system for the BNI Structural and Functional Imaging Core - This application is a request for funds to acquire a Zeiss Axioscan 7 slide scanner for the Structural and
Functional Imaging Core at the Burke Neurological Institute. The Institute, dedicated to finding cures for
chronic neurological disabilities, requires an automated image acquisition system to advance their NIH-funded
research. The mandate of the Imaging Core facility is to provide access to a range of light microscopy systems
and provide technical assistance with image acquisition, processing, and analysis to all research groups within
BNI. While the Institute has invested in high-resolution confocal and multiphoton microscopy systems, it lacks
modern epifluorescence and brightfield imaging systems. Existing microscopy solutions are aging and lack
critical features found in the proposed Axioscan 7 system. This scarcity of resources poses a significant
bottleneck for the diverse NIH-funded research programs at the Institute. The Axioscan 7 slide scanner, with its
automated full slide workflow, unlimited z-stack acquisition parameters, and advanced deconvolution
algorithms, offers an optimal combination of features for large area tissue scanning and stitching. The
proposed system will greatly expedite research progress by reducing active user time during image acquisition.
Furthermore, the surrounding area lacks other automated, high-throughput microscopy resources accessible to
BNI investigators, making the Axioscan 7 an indispensable asset. Its implementation will not only benefit
currently NIH-funded research programs but also catalyze the progress of studies that are yet to reach the
maturity required for NIH funding. The proposed research projects underscore the shared need for an
advanced slide scanning system. In conclusion, the extensive capabilities and efficient workflow of the
Axioscan 7 will exert a sustained, powerful influence on the conduct of NIH-funded research programs at the
Burke Neurological Institute and support breakthroughs in the understanding and treatment of chronic
neurological disabilities.
