Microplate reader, sofware, and printer

In order to understand the signals that cause T cells (a type of white blood cell) to develop distinct functions involved in defense against disease-causing microbes and cancer, as well as the prevention of autoimmune diseases, we need to be able to determine the type and amount of chemical messengers (called cytokines) that are involved in this process. We also need to be able to measure the growth of T cells as they respond to these signals. Such measurements can be accurately and quickly obtained using a microplate reader that detects changes in light absorbance (color) caused by growing cells or cytokines in the presence of the appropriate indicator system. This method replaces other approaches that require much more expensive instruments or the use of radioactive materials. The instrument requested is a state-of-the-art Asys Expert Plus Microplate Reader plus the necessary MikroWin 2000 computer software to analyze our data, and a Laserjet printer to generate hard copies of our results. This new instrument will replace an ancient second-hand Bio-tek microplate autoreader that no longer functions and can not be repaired because parts are no longer available. A new microplate reader is essential for the continued success of the applicant's NSERC-funded research into the role of a unique cell surface structure (Thy-1) and related molecules in the development of the appropriate immune response against disease-causing microorganisms and cancer, as well as preventing the development of autoimmune diseases. Since these studies depend heavily on our capacity to measure cytokine production and T cell growth in a timely and accurate manner, the requested microplate reader will have a tremendous positive impact on our ability to meet our research goals.