Microscopy & Microtechniques 47 New spinning disk confocal microscopes for live-cell imaging


Two spinning disk confocal microscopes - IXplore IX85 SpinXL and SpinSR - have been introduced by Evident to support advanced live-cell imaging and super-resolution studies. Both systems are built on the IXplore IX85 automated inverted platform and offer improved acquisition speed, resolution, and sample protection.


The SpinXL, based on CrestOptics X-Light technology, delivers a 26.5 mm field number for rapid screening of large areas. Dual-camera support and near- infrared compatibility enable deeper imaging with minimal phototoxicity, making it well-suited for dynamic, high-throughput experiments.


The SpinSR, incorporating Yokogawa CSU-W1 technology and the TruSight SR algorithm, achieves lateral resolution down to 120 nm. It enables detailed time-lapse imaging of subcellular structures, with real-time control and intensity-preserving processing suitable for quantitative workflows. A 3D processing algorithm extends performance into organoid and deep-tissue samples.


Both systems are compatible with the LUPLAPO25XS silicone immersion objective, enabling improved 3D volumetric reconstruction and imaging at depth.


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New upright microscopes enhance routine microscopy tasks


Leica Microsystems has introduced the Visoria series of upright microscopes, designed to improve the efficiency and comfort of routine microscopy tasks in industrial, life science, and clinical environments. The new series includes three models tailored to specific application needs: the Visoria B for life science and clinical labs, the Visoria M for materials science and quality control, and the Visoria P for polarisation microscopy, ideal for studying the optical properties of anisotropic materials and geological samples.


The digital versions of the Visoria microscopes allow users to view and analyse samples directly on a tablet, removing the need for a computer and eyepieces. This digital setup frees up valuable space in laboratory and production environments, enabling more efficient workflows. The Visoria series is powered by Leica Microsystems’ Enersight software platform, offering a consistent and user-friendly interface for a wide range of applications.


With ergonomically designed features, the Visoria series enhances user comfort, even during long hours of use. The microscopes include symmetrically positioned stage controls, adjustable focus knobs, and customisable stage height and torque to reduce strain and improve posture. The encoding functions allow users to streamline their tasks by automatically saving image parameters, including magnification and filter settings, in the image’s metadata, which helps save time and ensures consistency in results.


Designed with efficiency, comfort, and precision in mind, the Visoria series from Leica Microsystems provides an advanced solution for professionals across various fields, helping to simplify routine microscopy tasks and enhance productivity.


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New FIB-SEM enhances automated TEM sample prep


The Crossbeam 550 Samplefab from Zeiss is a focused ion beam scanning electron microscope (FIB-SEM), designed for automated transmission electron microscopy (TEM) sample preparation. Engineered for speed and reliability in semiconductor research, the system streamlines bulk milling, lift-out, and thinning, ensuring high precision and efficiency. With automation yields exceeding 90%, the Crossbeam 550 Samplefab minimises operator intervention while maximising lamella success rates.


TEM analysis plays a critical role in semiconductor device characterisation and process optimisation, but the accuracy and consistency of results depend on high-quality lamellae. The Crossbeam 550 Samplefab addresses this challenge with advanced automation that reduces manual workload and enhances throughput.


“To meet the growing demand for reliable and efficient TEM sample preparation, we developed the Crossbeam 550 Samplefab with a focus on automation and ease of use,” said Dr Thomas Rodgers, Head of Business Sector Electronics at Zeiss Microscopy. “This system enables fully unattended processing of ultra-thin lamellae, ensuring exceptional accuracy and reproducibility. Its newly designed user interface offers an intuitive experience for both new and experienced operators, allowing ten lamellae to be prepared in under eight hours.”


The system incorporates the Gemini 2 electron column, enabling real-time SEM observation during FIB milling. This feature ensures optimal lamella quality and precise endpointing, particularly for applications requiring ultrathin samples beyond standard automated processes.


“Our FIB column delivers outstanding stability, reducing the need for frequent calibration or realignment. Many users report weeks of uninterrupted operation, even in high-throughput environments,” Rodgers added. “The system’s robust workflow allows dozens of lamellae to be created using a single probe tip, which requires reshaping only after extended use. A quick reshaping procedure restores tip performance in under 30 minutes, and complete tip exchanges take just half an hour - maximising uptime and lowering operational costs.”


More information online: ilmt.co/PL/Xx44 64103pr@reply-direct.com Next-generation cryo-TEM accelerates molecular structure research


Thermo Fisher Scientific has unveiled its most advanced cryo-transmission electron microscope (cryo-TEM) - the Krios™ 5 Cryo-TEM - designed to meet the growing demands of researchers investigating the structure and function of complex biological systems.


Building on the success of its predecessor, the Krios 5 delivers a step-change in cryo-EM performance, combining enhanced optics, streamlined workflows, and smart automation to significantly increase throughput and data quality. Capable of revealing the finest molecular details, the system supports both single particle analysis (SPA) and cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) applications.


The Krios 5 introduces a suite of improvements aimed at accelerating structure determination. AI-guided setup simplifies operation, while upgraded data acquisition tools increase image quality and consistency. With up to 25% greater throughput compared to earlier models, the Krios 5 allows researchers to extract more information in less time - bringing high-resolution 3D reconstructions of proteins and macromolecular complexes within closer reach.


For users focused on cryo-ET, a new vacuum capsule transfer system helps protect sensitive lamellae during sample handling, minimising ice contamination and preserving integrity throughout the imaging workflow.


High-fidelity visualisation of protein interactions, viral architecture, and cellular machinery is key to advancing drug development and therapeutic innovation. The Krios 5 supports this effort by making routine what was once considered cutting-edge - allowing researchers to push further into complex biological questions with confidence.


Trisha Rice, VP and General Manager of Life Sciences for Materials and Structural Analysis at Thermo Fisher Scientific, commented: “The Krios 5 Cryo-TEM delivers the automation, reliability, and performance that modern labs need to translate structural insights into scientific and therapeutic breakthroughs. It’s the result of close collaboration with the cryo-EM community and our ongoing mission to empower researchers with the tools to fight disease at the molecular level.”


The Krios 5 is equipped with an energy-efficient standby mode that reduces power usage without delaying experiments. It also carries the My Green Lab ACT ecolabel certification, aligning with lab sustainability goals.


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