Peer Imaging Clusters (PICS)
Peer Imaging Clusters (PICs)
Peer Imaging Clusters (PICs) are small, collaborative research cohorts designed to advance innovative imaging science through interdisciplinary partnerships. Each PIC brings together multiple research labs working collectively on cutting-edge scientific projects.
Supported by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, the PICs receive funding to support research activities and lab supplies. Additionally, the Burroughs Wellcome Fund provides financial support for postdoctoral fellows embedded within each PIC, ensuring dedicated research personnel and strong project execution.
The PIC model fosters collaboration, accelerates scientific discovery, and promotes excellence in imaging research through shared expertise and resources.
Beyond Diffraction Limited Imaging: Predicting Cancer and Immune cell phenotype
This proposal aims to investigate the mechanism of pEV uptake and antitumor/antiinflammatory
effects in complex tissue microenvironments using a non-invasive, high-resolution lens-less
photon-based imaging technique that bypasses the diffraction limit. This technique can image live cells in 3D
without staining or labeling, making it applicable to various scientific areas.
Diabetic Wound Healing Interrogation with Quantum Light and Wavefront Shaping
Diabetic wounds are complex and can lead to serious complications, including limb amputation—especially in Black individuals, who face significantly higher risks. Our project introduces a novel, non-invasive optical method to assess and monitor wound healing in real time, aiming to better predict complications and reduce disparities in diabetic foot care.
Metadevices for longitudinal imaging of mitochondrial trafficking in peripheral nerves
Our research explores how disrupted cellular balance contributes to peripheral neuropathy—a nerve condition linked to aging, cancer treatment, and increased fall risk. This condition disproportionately affects aging Black Americans, yet its cellular causes and racial disparities remain unclear. By studying mitochondrial function in peripheral nerves, we aim to uncover mechanisms behind neuropathy and inform the development of targeted therapies.
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A Community Partnership in Achieving Precision Medicine: Addressing the Biological Determinants of
Health Disparities in African Americans
This project combines precision medicine and community engagement to advance Alzheimer’s research and address health disparities. With a focus on African American populations—who are often underrepresented in biomedical research—we aim to uncover how lipid metabolism affects Alzheimer’s progression and develop targeted therapies. Our diverse, collaborative team is also building a community advisory board to ensure inclusive research from the ground up.
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