# Tissue and Cell Analysis Core

> **NIH NIH P30** · UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO · 2020 · $95,096

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT
The Tissue and Cell Analysis (TCA) Core provides traditional and cutting-edge technologies necessary for
morphological analysis of cells, tissues from experimental animals, and human tissues. Dr. Jerrold Turner,
M.D., Ph.D., is a subspecialty-trained GI pathologist who is an expert in routine and advanced imaging
approaches and data interpretation. The Co-Director, Dr. Vytas Bindokas, Ph.D., has an extensive
understanding of the newest imaging technologies and post-acquisition analytical tools. Together, their
complementary skill sets provide users with the guidance needed for effective use of available resources. The
TCA is closely aligned with the other Cores of the DDRCC, providing members with the capability of tissue and
cell analysis of human and experimental samples derived from their services.
The importance of services provided by the TCA Core has only increased in recent years as use of animal
models and human specimens has grown exponentially. Tools needed to study these include H&E tissue
preparations, simple and complex immunohistochemical stains, and more complicated preparations. The TCA
Core also provides a longitudinal array of human specimens that have been well-characterized and preserved,
anatomic pathology consultation, instruction in all techniques,(including immunohistochemistry), and
specialized guidance specifically related to study of gastrointestinal disease. Slide-scanners can create virtual
slides that can be viewed using a computer and virtual microscope software. This makes it possible to
preserve the samples for viewing over extended periods of time or to share slides electronically, and greatly
simplifies photomicroscopy.
In order to study the diverse specimen preparations generated by DDRCC members, the TCA Core provides
access to advanced imaging technologies, including superresolution microscopy that makes it possible to
overcome the diffraction-limited 250 nm resolution of light microscopy by an order of magnitude. Other tools,
including widefield deconvolution, laser scanning confocal, and spinning disk confocal microscopy make it
possible to perform intravital imaging of cultured cells and genetically modified animals expressing fluorescent-
tagged proteins. These are able to provide previously unattainable views of ongoing pathobiology that allow
unprecedented insight into disease mechanisms. Further, as computer power has grown, advanced software
that simplifies complex morphometry of enormous 5D (x,y,z,t,λ) datasets has become available. The TCA Core
has invested in these costly programs and makes their use available to DDRCC members at minimal cost.
Perhaps most importantly, the TCA Core provides expert assistance and education in the use of the growing
array of routine and highly specialized technologies that are available. This is essential, as the pace of
advances makes it difficult for most investigators to be comfortable with or appreciate the benefits of these new
tools.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9838215
- **Project number:** 5P30DK042086-30
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
- **Principal Investigator:** JERROLD R. TURNER
- **Activity code:** P30 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $95,096
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** — → —

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9838215

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9838215, Tissue and Cell Analysis Core (5P30DK042086-30). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-01 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9838215. Licensed CC0.

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