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A miniature microscope for fluorescence imaging

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Project Overview

Microscopes are essential for understanding the structure of cells, microorganisms, and other molecular structures. Many educational institutions and scientists rely on these devices for important research, yet modern microscopes, while available to well-financed labs, are often not an option for a classroom setting. Therefore, many students are unable to use these devices to practice processes that they are expected to understand later. A typical epifluorescent microscope can cost over $100,000, which far exceeds a typical course budget. The client, Professor Matthew Merrins, teaches a human biochemistry lab at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His lab currently uses Laconic, a Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET)-based biosensor to detect the presence of Lactate in cells. Ideally, this lab will allow students to learn about microscopy through experimentation, but with the cost constraint of the course a “typical” microscope is out of the question. The goal of this design is to build an affordable, FRET-capable microscope that can be repeatedly manufactured for his students. The current proposed design involves a simplified microscope with a sample stand, LED light source, objective platform with filter-switching interface, tube lens, and camera. The data collected from the camera will be submitted to a proper software service for data analysis and extraction. Current design plans include assembly and testing of the excitation source.

Team Picture

Team members from left to right: Ethan Nethery, Ben Ratliff, John Rupel, Kaitlyn Gabardi, Kadina Johnston
Team members from left to right: Ethan Nethery, Ben Ratliff, John Rupel, Kaitlyn Gabardi, Kadina Johnston

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Contact Information

Team Members

  • Kadina Johnston - Team Leader
  • John Rupel - Communicator
  • Ethan Nethery - BSAC
  • Benjamin Ratliff - BWIG
  • Kaitlyn Gabardi - BPAG

Advisor and Client

  • Dr. Jeremy Rogers - Advisor
  • Prof. Matthew Merrins - Client

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