Scientists from the University of Plymouth are advancing the development of new technology which could improve our ability to assess the impacts of climate change.
EmbryoPhenomics, created by researchers in the Marine Biology and Ecology Research Centre, uses bio-imaging, robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) to produce automated measurements of the size, shape, movement and heart rate of organisms.
By capturing the most minute details of their early development, it provides a detailed, microscopic view of how embryos of aquatic animals, such as snails and shrimps, develop and react to the environment around them.
The technology was first outlined in a research paper published in PLoS Biology in December 2018, since then scientists have been continuing its development at the University and Plymouth Science Park (PSP).
Using PSP’s Additive Layer Manufacturing facility is allowing the team to develop a scalable suite of prototype devices which enable technology previously restricted to use in the laboratory to be extended and deployed more widely.
This includes being used in an aquatic environment as part of submersible, autonomous camera systems, with the technology expected to benefit key research areas including environmental monitoring.
Dr Oliver Tills began developing EmbryoPhenomics during his BSc (Hons) Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology degree and is continuing to lead its development in conjunction with Professor of Aquatic Biology Simon Rundle and Professor of Marine Zoology John Spicer.
Dr Tills said:
“Embryonic development is a highly dynamic process, during which embryos can be extremely sensitive to their environments. But making meaningful measurements of this sensitivity in the real world is a challenge. Developing these technology-enabled approaches will provide a deeper understanding of the effects of the various components of climate change in the marine environment, including temperature, acidity and oxygen levels.
“PSP’s on-site 3D printing centre plays a crucial role in assisting our research as it allows for extremely rapid innovation and prototyping. It provides pinpoint accuracy and gives us the chance to go from a concept to a physical design deployed out in the environment within just a day or two.”
