Using a high-throughput confocal fluorescence microscope, the research group is able to gain profound insights into the tiny structures of living cells. With a penetration depth of up to six cell layers, it can explore the smallest organoids, for example. Even 3D representations of living cells are no problem. The working group is able to make optical sections right through a living cell and examine entire cell clusters. High-throughput screenings, as known from the pharmaceutical industry, are possible without any problems. The device is particularly suitable for short-term tests lasting from a few milliseconds to an hour. It is fully automated and produces publishable images. A high-performance IT infrastructure enables the fast and secure processing of large volumes of data.
Interested parties who would like to use the device for complex questions on biological processes are welcome.
The ImageXpress Micro from Molecular Devices is available at AG Bufe. The device is equipped with an automatic pipetting station and enables measurements on 96-well plates or on individual preparations. The samples can be excited in a spectral window of 200 nm to 800 nm. An environmental chamber enables live cell imaging experiments such as Ca imaging. Time series in the seconds range up to 24 hours are possible here. The maximum frame rate is 30 frames per second. A 10X objective is available for overviews. The device also has 20X 40X and 60X objectives. Immersion lenses for oil or water can be retrofitted.