18 ANALYTICAL AND LABORATORY EQUIPMENT
community respond and develop the microscopes of tomorrow?
Modular optimisation From routine observation through to the specialised requirements of advanced imaging technologies, such as high content screening or confocal laser scanning microscopy, open source microscope frames can be easily configured for any application.
A range of optical modules is currently available, which is expanding alongside the concept itself, allowing the user to combine modules to suit their needs.
When using fluorescence for example, a filter turret module can be inserted into the infinite light path and multichannel imaging performed using separate filter positions (Fig. 3). Tis is useful in localisation and transport studies for the specific identification of molecules labelled with different fluorophores.
A camera mount (C-mount) enables the use of additional components, such as an
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additional laser for advanced techniques. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP), is one such technique and particularly useful in studying cell membrane protein binding and diffusion.
Open source frames also allow the possibility of integrating third party and custom-made optical modules, making applications potentially endless. Prior Scientific, for example, has already released its high-speed filter wheel module designed specifically for the IX3 range, which is mounted into the frame deck using a support known as the Breadboard platform. By using this platform along with custom components, the microscope can be adapted to user requirements now and in the future.
Tomorrow’s microscopy Te advantages of open source frame design are wide-ranging, especially in situations where multiple users depend upon a single microscope to perform a diverse range of applications. In such shared microscopy suites individuals must compromise with a single limited instrument.
In place of this, an open source system with a choice of different modules allows each user to quickly swap in their required modules, instantaneously optimising the microscope for the experiment at hand.
Establishing the foundations for the future, this design is transforming microscopy, as systems of integrated components can now be moulded and optimised for any application.
Access to the infinite light path allows rapid and effortless switching between basic and advanced applications without specific engineering knowledge or tools. Tis flexible concept is set to push the boundaries of technology forward by enabling customisable microscope systems to grow with the evolving demands of life science research, and advance the speed at which microscopy moves into the future.
For more information ✔ at
www.scientistlive.com/eurolab
Wolfgang Hempell is Section Manager at Olympus Europa SE & CO KG, Hamburg, Germany.
www.microscopy.olympus.eu
Fig. 3. Multichannel fluorescence capture of Huh7 cells. Achieved with the fluorescence cube turret module using separate filter positions, merged to form a multichannel image. Lysosomes in green, mitochondria in red and cell nuclei in blue.
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