Background/problem
Multicolor fluorescence microscopy is an important tool in biological research, enabling scientists to observe various components of living cells using fluorescent dyes that emit light at different wavelengths. This technique offers valuable insights into cellular structures and functions, advancing our knowledge of complex biological processes.
However, state-of-the-art multicolor fluorescence microscopy suffers from several technical limitations. The sequential use of optical filters to isolate specific wavelengths can result in different fluorescent channels being temporally offset, leading to motion blur in the final composite image and less effective in observing dynamic, non-static cells. As the number of needed wavelengths or channels increase, more optical elements like dichroic mirrors are also needed, which can introduce distortions and degrade image quality due to increased encounters with these elements. Also, these systems become more complex and costly to produce, making them impractical for capturing high-quality images of more than four colors simultaneously. This complexity and cost limit their widespread use, emphasizing the need for improved imaging components that can efficiently handle multiple channels without compromising on image quality or speed.
Tech overview/solution
The “Quad-View Image Splitter” is a cutting-edge technology designed to revolutionize multicolor fluorescence microscopy by maximizing imaging speed, sensitivity and quality for multi-wavelength fluorescence. The technology operates by splitting an incoming light beam into several secondary light beams, each associated with a specific wavelength. These secondary beams are then collimated and directed along different optical paths. A recombining element, consisting of various pickoff mirrors, merges these secondary light beams back into a single recombined beam for high-quality image capture on an image sensor.
Benefits/competitive advantage
The “Quad-View Image Splitter” offers some key competitive edge in the realm of multicolor fluorescence microscopy, such as:
- Simultaneous capture: The technology enables simultaneous capture of multiple fluorescent channels, significantly enhancing the efficiency of imaging processes.
- Reduced motion blur: It effectively reduces motion blur artifacts in captured images, ensuring the clarity and precision of the results.
- Versatility: The system is capable of handling 4, 8, or even 16 secondary light beams, demonstrating its adaptability to various imaging requirements.
- Improved image quality and speed: It significantly improves image quality and efficiency in multicolor imaging, making it an invaluable tool for research applications.
- Minimized image distortion: By reducing optical encounters, the technology minimizes image distortion, further enhancing the accuracy of the captured images.
- Cost-effective: The system is cost-effective due to the fewer required optical elements, making it an economical choice for high-quality imaging.
Opportunity
“Quad-View Image Splitter” can be a powerful tool with enormous research and biomedical applications, particularly for cellular analysis that supports advancements in healthcare, materials science, and biotechnology. With its compatibility with Electron Multiplying Charge Couple Detection (EMCCD) sensors and Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) systems, it can transform the field of microscopy (multicolor fluorescence, confocal) for better live cell imaging. The global microscopy market was valued at USD 9.1 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 17.4 billion by 2032.
