Super-Zoom Confocal Microscope Allows 3D Navigation Through Sample

New technologies have been developed in confocal and stereomicroscopy for ultra-high resolutions, from macro to nano, in laboratory and life science sectors. One of these is the super-zoom three-dimensional (3D) confocal system--its automated zoom allows seamless magnification change from overview to detail with free 3D navigation through the sample--from embryo to cell, from cell to genome.

Presented by Leica Microsystems (Wetzlar, Germany) at Analytica 2008 (Munich, Germany), which took place on April 1-4, 2008, the Leica TCS LSI has made it possible to identify influences of genetic defects on the living model organism or to study in vivo the development from a cell to the entire organism in every detail. Combining high confocal resolution with a large field-of-view of up to 16 mm, the Leica TCS LSI enables unique in vivo imaging of large samples.

The Leica Microsystems launched its new Leica TCS SP5 X supercontinuum confocal system, providing freedom and flexibility that were previously unattainable with fluorescence microscopy, visibly improving results. The innovative supercontinuum laser allows the investigator to choose any excitation line within the continuous range of 470 to 670 nm. The Leica TCS SP5 X precisely adapts to any fluorescent dye. Optimal adjustment of the excitation line to the sample--in 1-nm increments--reduces cross-excitation and minimizes sample damage. The Leica TCS SP5 X also allows multi-color excitation with up to eight excitation lines simultaneously.

The Leica M205 C uses FusionOptics to offer a new dimension in stereomicroscopy. Leica FusionOptics makes advantageous use of a neurologic phenomenon: the left beam path produces great depth of field, while the right beam path provides a high-resolution image. The human brain itself then combines the best information from both channels, using it to compose an image whose resolution and depth of field have never been achieved in any stereomicroscope before.

The endoscopic confocal microscope Leica FCM1000 enables non-invasive real-time examinations to be conducted on living animals. High-speed recordings can be made of cellular or vascular processes simply by bringing the flexible and minimally invasive micro probe in contact with the tissue of interest. This new method allows repeat measurements as well as follow-up analysis of living processes on the same animal. The innovative fiber-optic confocal fluorescence microscope Leica FCM1000 was developed by Leica Microsystems' partnering company Mauna Kea Technologies (Paris, France) and is fully adapted to in-vivo and in situ small animal imaging.

New prospects are offered for research in proteomics and genomics, toxicology, and neurobiology by the Leica LMD6000 laser microdissection system. Featuring automated cell recognition and an integrated scanning table with a holding fixture for up to three specimens, the new laser microdissection system provides excellent sample throughput.

The Leica CM1950 cryostat platform for pathologists comprises a standard instrument plus a range of options that allow each laboratory to configure a cryostat that matches their individual needs. To ensure the Leica CM1950 meets the needs of cryostat users, Leica Microsystems have introduced two significant features: the CryoZone cooling system and the optional vacuum waste removal system. The CryoZone system controls a zone of uniformly cool air in the critical areas of the cryochamber. The optional vacuum system aids workflow and safety, saving time by keeping sections flat, wrinkle-free, and enhancing operator safety by removing waste material.


Related Links:
Leica Microsystems
Analytica 2008
Mauna Kea Technologies