Low-power, Confocal Imaging of Protein Localization in Living Cells (7214-150), Phase I

The proposed technology genetically labels intracellular structures and visualizes protein interactions in living cells using a compact, confocal microscope with solid-state laser illumination. The proposed innovation will allow advanced study of cellular biology in microgravity environments. The recently introduced reef coral proteins fluoresce over a broader range of wavelengths than GFP and its derivatives. This allows simultaneous fluorescence labeling of three, and possibly four, cellular constituents simultaneously. The proposed confocal microscope will be based entirely on compact, low-power solid-state laser technology and will allow high-resolution imaging of structures within living cells in three colors simultaneously at standard video frame rates. As part of this innovation we will develop a 594 nm solid state laser for improved resolution of HcRed, the most red-shifted of the reef coral proteins. In Phase I we will set up a biological model that incorporates three different protein fusions. Phase I microscopy studies will determine the specifications for spectral and spatial resolution for the Phase II device. That Phase II device will comprise a compact system that uses low-power solid-state laser illumination. The device will have broad applicability for space cell biology research and also for terrestrial-based cell biology research.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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