Equipped to Lead
Gift helps scientists stay at forefront of discovery
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Two state-of-the-art confocal micro-scopes being acquired through a
$1 million gift from Larry G. Miller will enable scientists to conduct their work in new and innovative ways. The technology allows researchers to view tissues and cellular activity at great depths and at exceptionally high resolutions.
“These microscopes have a variety of applications that will enable scientists to answer questions that they can’t answer with traditional microscopy,” says Debra A. Thompson, Ph.D., Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and Biological Chemistry, who will use the new microscopes to study the biological mechanisms of inherited retinal diseases. “The work of every one of our researchers will benefit from these tools. This acquisition provides the technology needed to advance our research goals.”
The purchase of a confocal laser-scanning microscope and a multiphoton confocal laser-scanning microscope will make the Kellogg Eye Center one of the best-equipped vision research centers in the world. “Kellogg is building impressive research facilities, and having the best technology available is important,” says Mr. Miller, a founding partner of automotive supplier Molmec, Inc., and a graduate of the University of Michigan School of Engineering. "My hope is that the microscopes will help the Eye Center continue to recruit top scientists and empower all faculty members to do their best research.”
Confocal microscope systems use lasers and a spatial filtering technique to enable the very precise examination of cells, while a multiphoton confocal microscope and corresponding software system allow researchers to image thick tissues such as the cornea and retina. Scientists can also use infrared light to view activity in cells that are sensitive to normal light, such as those that are essential to vision. Faculty members will use the microscopes to expand existing projects and launch new research efforts. “The investment in this technology is an investment in our future, one that has the potential to greatly increase the speed with which discoveries are made and scientific advances occur,” says Paul R. Lichter, M.D., Director of the Kellogg Eye Center. “We are grateful for Mr. Miller’s dedication to vision.”
This is Mr. Miller’s second $1 million contribution to Kellogg’s expansion effort. To celebrate Mr. Miller’s partnership, the Eye Center will name its new comprehensive ophthalmology clinic in his honor.
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