"Imaging live Antarctic cells at sub-zero temperatures using high-resolution microscopy" is an interdisciplinary research project between the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) and the Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology (CEB) at the University of Cambridge. Funded by the UKRI Cross Research Council Responsive Mode Scheme (CRCRM), this collaboration brings together expertise in polar biology, advanced imaging, and molecular engineering to tackle one of the most challenging frontiers in life sciences.
This project will develop a high-resolution microscopy system to visualise the real-time behaviour of proteins in Antarctic fish cells at sub-zero temperatures. By integrating cutting-edge advances in biology, physics, engineering, and chemistry, the research will unlock new insights into how life adapts to extreme cold environments and how these adaptations may be affected by climate change.
At its core, the project aims to transform our understanding of evolutionary resilience in polar organisms by observing protein dynamics in their native, frozen conditions. These insights are not only critical for predicting biological responses to global warming but also have far-reaching applications in medicine and biotechnology.
The technologies developed will support innovations in cryopreservation and the long-term storage of therapeutic proteins, with potential to revolutionise biobanking and regenerative medicine. Furthermore, the discovery and engineering of low-temperature enzymes could lead to more sustainable industrial processes across sectors such as food, pharmaceuticals, and environmental remediation.
Beyond biology, the project will drive advancements in imaging technologies for use in hazardous or extreme environments, including high-containment laboratories and potentially space exploration. This interdisciplinary effort will set a new benchmark for cold-environment research and imaging, with broad societal and scientific benefits.
Our project has been featured in the BAS 2024 news stories (here), CEB news (here), and UKRI news story announcing the grant (here).