National Center for Macromolecular Imaging
Mission Statement:
The missions of the National Center for Macromolecular Imaging (NCMI) include technology development driven by a diverse spectrum of biological samples to (1) achieve reliable atomic resolution structures of molecular machines; (2) derive structures from conformationally variable machines, and (3) characterize subcellular complexes within intact cells in normal and pathological states.
How we achieve this
To accomplish this goal in the context of a national Research Resource, we pursue:
Collaboration
The equipment, techniques and expertise we develop are available to the research community through our collaborative projects. We currently have many active collaborative projects worldwide. Structural studies have been carried out with biological molecules which are the targets for preventing or curing various human diseases, including viral infections, cancer, atherosclerosis, coronary heart diseases, hypertension, tuberculosis, and neurological and genetic disorders.
Dissemination
The NCMI also provides training through workshops and other forms of dissemination via both traditional and modern Internet-based methods. An animation specialist in NCMI is developing the tools to visualize complex three-dimensional structures generated from the image analysis and also the means to store and distribute the animations to the public. We have generated numerous animation productions for lecture presentations, teaching and research tools, journal and magazine publications and museum exhibits.
Propose a research project to be performed at the NCMI.If you have confidentiality concerns, or would like to discuss the general feasibility of your project prior to submitting a proposal, you are welcome to email Wah Chiu (wah@bcm.edu) or one of the center co-directors.