Creating a Pipeline for Expanded Access to Volumetric Visual Proteomics

Technical advances across multiple domains are enabling visual proteomics. However, widespread adoption remains limited due to its complexity and cost, along with a lack of access to expertise and equipment. This team will develop VP-CLEM-KIT, a cost-effective pipeline for high resolution correlative light and electron microscopy (HR-CLEM) using serial super-resolved imaging that can be implemented in any light microscopy facility by removing the dependency on advanced electron microscopy expertise and equipment. With knowledge in probes, sample preparation, advanced imaging, optics, open source hardware and software, image analysis, machine learning, workflow integration, and user experience, this international multidisciplinary team will deliver a pipeline for biologists and clinical researchers to visualize, measure, and analyze proteins in the context of cells and tissues in health and disease.

Researchers will demonstrate the power of VP-CLEM-KIT through studying the causes of Parkinson’s disease and COVID-19. Project outputs will include protocols, hardware, software, workflows, and datasets packaged and disseminated for easy adoption within the research community. The pipeline will be scalable, from imaging the visual proteome of cells at local facilities to tissues in national facilities. VP-CLEM-KIT will provide a blueprint for increased access to advanced imaging technologies.