Dual microscope cameras simplify capture of rapid cellular event
31 March 2008
Nikon’s new Ti Series of inverted microscopes
can capture images at two wavelengths simultaneously using dual cameras,
making it simpler to observe dynamic cellular events.
The ground-breaking stratum structure, which fully utilises Nikon’s
200mm infinity space, makes this possible by allowing an extra camera to
be added via the optional back port, in conjunction with a camera on the
side imaging port.
The rear camera can be individually centred and
focused to guarantee perfect registration of both images simultaneously
with no pixel shift. With two cameras it’s possible to accurately
observe rapid calcium reactions with dual emission ratiometric dyes such
as Indo-1 without dividing the CCD chip and compromising image
resolution.
In addition, a dual camera configuration also permits researchers to
compare high S/N ratio images when observing interactions between
fluorescence proteins with FRET. Each FRET channel can be separated by
wavelength and sent to separate cameras. This enables the capture of
high-resolution images in the entire frame for each wavelength. Even
when the intensity difference between signal intensities is large, a
high-quality FRET image can be captured by adjusting camera sensitivity
for each wavelength.
Extra components, such as laser tweezers and a photo activation unit,
can also be mounted simultaneously on upper and lower tiers of the new
microscope.
Making full use of infinity optics, the Ti’s flexible
stratum structure allows these components to be used in conjunction with
Nikon’s Perfect Focus System (PFS),
which is embedded into the Ti nosepiece.
A two-tier epi-fluorescent
filter turret holding up to a total of 10 filter cubes can also be
incorporated, ideal for multi-user facilities and researchers working
with a number of different dyes and fluorescent proteins. Furthermore,
for maximum speed and versatility, each motorised filter wheel can be
controlled separately.
Commenting on the benefits of the Ti Series’ flexible design, Alan
Monk, Biological Imaging Systems Specialist for Nikon Instruments UK
said, “The revolutionary design of this system gives researchers working
with live cell imaging far greater flexibility in the design of their
experimental protocols in fields as varied as neuroscience and
embryology.”