LSS 112: Building DIY Neuroscience Tools

Drosophila neurons expressing a calcium indicator linked to Green Fluorescent Protein (left). Do-it-yourself epi-fluorescent microscope imaging labeled neurons (right). Photos courtesy of Dr. James Ryan (left) and Dr. David Deitcher (right)

In today’s show, we feature an report about three neuroscientists who have developed inexpensive “Do-it-yourself” neuroscience research tools. Cornell researchers Drs. Bruce Johnson and David Deitcher, and Hobart and William Smith Colleges professor James Ryan hope that their epifluorescence microscope and micromanipulator can be used in undergraduate laboratory courses. Cornell undergraduate student Joanna Papadakis also speaks about her experience building and using the microscope in her neuroscience lab course.

To learn more, visit: https://www2.hws.edu/ryan-creates-3d-printed-fluorescence-microscope/, and https://www.funjournal.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/june-19-134.pdf?x89760

Eastern Screech Owl (photo courtesy of Esther Racoosin)

Later on in the show, you’ll hear about how Ithaca-area birders Mark Chao and Miyoko Chu introduced passers-by on their evening walks to an Eastern Screech Owl roosting in a dead tree.

We also recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander History Month by profiling the late Nobel Laureate, Dr. Roger Y. Tsien. He, along, with Dr. Martin Chalfie and Dr. Osamu Shimomura, received the 2008 prize in chemistry for the discovery of and development of the green fluorescent protein, GFP for use in cell biological applications.

Producer: Liz Mahood

Interviews: Esther Racoosin

Music: Joe Lewis and Blue Dot Sessions