The W.M. Keck Center for Cellular Imaging, a University of Virginia Imaging Center is sponsoring an advanced course on fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM). This year, an additional element will be added: label-free NAD(P)H/FAD metabolic FLIM imaging, which the Center has been publishing several papers on. The focus will be on the fluorescence lifetime redox ratio (FLIRR), a novel metric to investigate both, mitochondrial OXPHOS and cytosolic glycolysis, accompanied by a quantitative analysis package which attendees will be trained on at the workshop.

The workshop will be an intensive lecture/laboratory series that will enable participants to develop theoretical and hands-on expertise with various FRET/FLIM/FLIRR microscopy techniques. Attendees will closely interact with the teaching faculty and assistants while using modern research grade microscopes equipped with essential filters, objective lenses, high-sensitivity detectors (PMTs), and state-of-the-art user-friendly software. These 5 days intensive course includes morning lectures and afternoon hands on training on FRET/FLIM/FLIRR microscopy systems. Experienced staff from universities and industry will provide instruction. With a maximum enrollment of 25 students, there will be ample opportunity for attendees to work with various state-of-the-art microscopes, and image processing software.

Topics to be covered include:

For Whom:

The workshop is designed primarily for research scientists, physicians, postdoctoral trainees, and graduate students in biomedical sciences, animal, and plant research. Non-biologists seeking a comprehensive introduction to FRET/FLIM and metabolism imaging microscopy will benefit greatly from this course as well. There are no specific prerequisites, but an understanding of the basic principles of microscopy and molecular biology is desirable.