MICROSCOPY 89
Fig. 2. Neuronal cells visualised by immuno fluorescence microscopy: Nucleus (DAPI, blue); Tubulin (Cy3, green); Nestin (Cy5, red); DCX (Cy2, magenta).
One example is that motorised and manual devices such as filter wheels or focus drives can be combined freely to fulfil the users’ needs. A researcher primarily interested in 3D imaging could arrange a motorised focus drive into an otherwise manual system. In a similar vein, users interested in multiple-colour acquisition could start with a motorised filter wheel and a manual focus.
Te advantages of a modular microscope platform are reflected in more than just the acquisition phase. A modular system is also open for updates. If preferences change, the microscope can be upgraded at any time to face new challenges in biology.
Besides the individuality (plus the option to upgrade it later on), this new type of inverted microscope offers another novelty. Modern research microscopes utilise infinity optics, delivering parallel light rays between the objective and the tube lens. Optic auxiliary brought into this infinite light path does not harm the image. Te Leica DMi8 gives users access to the infinite light path via the Infinity Port, a sophisticated opening at the microscope stand (see Fig. 1). With this, a new world of opportunities opens up for scientists. On the one hand, third-party equipment such as fluorescence light sources and laser systems can be attached to the microscope; on the other hand, tinkerers can couple their own devices for any kind of application. Advanced techniques such as FRAP, photo-switching, ablation, optogenetics and many more can be conducted – with the same microscope stand.
For flexible image acquisition, four different camera ports are available, which were optimised for sCMOS cameras. To cope with these newly established, large-format camera devices, the field of view measures 19mm compared to 16mm on standard camera ports.
Having numerous configuration and application opportunities is one side of the coin. But an open research microscope platform should also be practical and reliable. Tat is why easy-to-use hardware and software are indispensable. For example, a filter turret with easily exchangeable filter cubes, or a programmable touchscreen help to save time and effort, especially in a multi-user environment.
The second pillar In addition to hardware, the microscope software is the second important pillar that contributes to a useful microscope system. Reliable imaging and analysis
software arranges the integration of the hardware, for example third-party cameras. To improve comfort, hardware and software should interact seamlessly. In the end, users should be able to configure their own, custom- made microscope and enjoy the ease-of-use of a system solution at the same time.
Future outlook Inverted research microscopy changes incessantly. Preconfigured and inflexible systems are concepts of the past, since the request for open microscopy platforms has grown stronger. With their help, scientists can build an imaging system specified to their experiment and not vice versa.
Te major breakthrough for open microscope solutions is the access to the infinite light
path. Te Infinity Port serves this development and gives researchers the opportunity to follow the new developments in optical microscopy. Te demand to interact with and manipulate the specimen for example by FRAP, ablation or optogenetics can only be met comprehensively with this new class of inverted microscopes.
Evidently, an open microscope platform allows for a constant adaption to new applications. Hence, such an instrument is also an investment for the future. Researchers will be able to follow the evolution of biology and technology with only one microscope stand. It will be exciting to observe new developments in cell biology based on these new opportunities.
For more information ✔ at
www.scientistlive.com/eurolab
Dr Christoph Greb is a scientific writer at Leica Microsystems in Germany.
www.leica-microsystems.com
www.scientistlive.com
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