Antwerp Centre for Advanced Microscopy
High impact science through systematic and quantitative imaging
Service
ACAM offers a broad range of services, delivered by our experienced team.
We are part of the part of the Flemish BioImaging node, which is embedded within the EuroBioImaging network.
Collaboration
> Academic or Industrial
> Co-development of new technologies
> Strategic partnerships
Offerings
> Consultancy and project writing
> Proof of concept studies
> Assay development
> Routine standardized measurements
> Image informatics support​
Collaborations
Before starting a project ACAM offers a complimentary one-hour consultation to discuss your project, define objectives, and identify the most suitable research approaches and experimental workflows. In this meeting we will also determine the required regulatory permits, where ACAM can help with the administration (e.g. ethics/ biosafety permits).
Offerings
Before launching a full-scale research project, ACAM offers tailored Feasibility or Proof of Concept studies to validate the chosen approach and ensure the objectives are achievable.
Feasibility studies <<<
Assess whether a concept or method can be successfully implemented.
Proof of Concept studies <<<
Determine how to apply the approach most effectively in practice.
Sample preparation
ACAM delivers expert sample preparation solutions tailored to your project needs. Our team guides you through the best techniques, highlighting advantages, limitations, and practical applications ensurin fast, reliable, and reproducible results. We offer a flexible range of methods:
>>> Embedding: paraffin, resin, agarose, etc.
>>> Sectioning: paraffin, cryo, slices, ultramicrotomy, etc.
>>> Staining: HE, ICC, IHC, ISH, tissue clearing, etc.
Imaging
ACAM is equipped with an array of advanced microscopes for various applications.
Image analysis
ACAM has the expertise to develop tailer made analyses in different open-source software packages (e.g. Fiji, QuPath, Python) and has already optimized and validated various analysis pipelines for specific applications that are available on GitHub.
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Standardized workflows:
>>> Cell phenotypic profiling: intensity and morphology measurements.
>>> Neuronal connectivity: neurite- and synapse detection & functional calcium analyses.
>>> Organoid phenotypic profiling: intensity and morphology measurements in 3D.
>>> Histopathology: tissue detection/classification and intensity measurements.
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Data management
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ACAM offers state-of-the-art database infrastructure:
Local servers <<<
For sensitive or proprietary data, on-premises storage with regular backups and version control.
Metadata management <<<
Proper labelling and database integration.
Samples and images can easily be referenced, traced and retrieved.
Data sharing and transfer <<<
Easy and user-friendly data transfer options.
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