OMAL focuses its research and development activities to quantitatively understand the molecular basis of three-dimensional (3D) cell organization, motility, invasion, and differentiation using fixed samples and live, 3D tissue culture models (i.e., translational models). OMAL is a CCR-dedicated facility. Prospective users and collaborators should first consult the following website before contacting OMAL staff:
https://confocal.ccr.cancer.gov/nci-microscopy-core-labs/frederick/omal/.OMAL is operated by Leidos Biomedial Research Inc. on behalf of NCI as part of the Frederick National Laboratory.
Established Optical Microscopy Technologies
- Bright-field, phase, differential interference contrast (Nomarsky) imaging
- FRAP
- FRET
- Multi-color, high-resolution fluorescence image acquisition of fixed and live specimens (up to 3 colors).
- Ratio imaging of calcium ions and other elements
- Time-lapse imaging of live cells
- Image database server for storing/archiving
Advanced techniques are undertaken in collaboration with OMAL scientists
- Second-harmonic generation imaging microscopy (SHIM)
- Small animal microscope imaging
- FCS/RICS
- FLIM
- TIRF
- SIM
- PALM/STORM
- Light Sheet Microscopy
- Customized image analysis
Training and Scheduling
- Please contact Kim Peifley at 301-846-6561 to schedule a training session.
Developing Technologies
- OMAL technology development projects collectively advance multi-functional microscopy for a comprehensive understanding of molecular interactions in living cells.