Develop new technologies for the imaging of biological structure and function.
The technologies employed range from conventional light microscopy and laser scanning microscopy, to optical coherence tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) microscopy. As these technologies are refined, they are made available to the members of the USC research community. Thus, the Translational Imaging Center serves dual, complementary roles as a research center and as a user facility. To fulfill its research mission, the Translational Imaging Center houses an interdisciplinary research group, encompassing researchers in disciplines ranging from applied physics to neurobiology. The overarching research goal is to apply technologies for the intravital imaging of cells and cellular processes in living tissues.
Much of the work in the TIC is focused upon the study of tissue patterning in developing embryos, but recent efforts have moved the research towards models of disease as well. The diseases of primary interest have been Multiple Sclerosis and Alzheimer's Disease, with an increasing interest in Macular Degeneration and other eye diseases. In all of these varied research topics, there is a common theme: TIC researchers employ advanced imaging tools to follow events as they take place inside an intact organism. These methods continue to yield unique longitudinal data, as well as insightful tests of proposals made from molecular or cell culture data.
A diverse group of scientists
The Translational Imaging Center (TIC) attracts a diverse group of scientists, embracing the fields of Biology, Physics, Engineering, Chemistry, and Mathematics. We promote a highly interdisciplinary environment, enhanced by scientific collaborations from the USC community and around the world.
A unique mix of cutting edge commercial and custom made imaging systems
TIC features multiphoton and confocal Laser Scanning Microscopes as well as custom made Light Sheet systems.
From embryonic development, to genetics, to neuroscience with advanced imaging tools.
Our projects vary greatly and entertain questions ranging from embryonic development, to genetics, to neuroscience. In each of the TIC's varied research focuses, there is a common theme: the use of advanced imaging tools to follow events as they take place inside an intact organism.
Our technologies have allowed us to expand into the biomedical realm, where we are spearheading key projects and giving rise to important biomedical devices and treatments - in areas ranging from eye disease to cancer. As we expand our knowledge and expertise, our center is actively bridging the gap between basic science research and science-based medicine.
Leaving the mark in literature
The Translational Imaging Center (TIC) has a long history of publications and patents, over 500 and counting.
Moments for sharing science and knowing scientists.
Events, conferences, seminars and workshops attended, organized, lectured by TIC staff and students.
University of Southern California
Translational Imaging Center
425 Michelson Hall (MCB)
1002 West Childs Way
Los Angeles, CA 90089
Phone: (+1) 213-740-2404; Pacific Standard Time
Translational Imaging Center: cura@provost.usc.edu
Fraser Laboratory: cura@provost.usc.edu