High-speed laser scanning and microfluidic device system for automated 3D imaging and specimen manipulation

The high-speed laser scanning microscopy platform enables rapid, automated 3D imaging of biological specimens, offering flexible control over imaging parameters, large field-of-view, and high-resolution imaging, ideal for studying dynamic processes in living organisms.

Background

Laser scanning systems, particularly in the field of microscopy, have become essential tools for capturing detailed images of biological specimens. These systems use a laser beam to illuminate and scan across a specimen, creating high-resolution images that are crucial for scientific research and medical diagnostics.

The need for advanced laser scanning technology arises from the demand for faster imaging speeds, larger fields of view, and the ability to capture three-dimensional images. As biological research delves deeper into complex cellular and molecular structures, the limitations of traditional imaging methods become apparent, necessitating innovations that can provide more comprehensive and rapid data acquisition.

Current laser scanning microscopes, however, face significant challenges that hinder their effectiveness. One major issue is the limited control over imaging parameters, which is often due to hardware constraints. Many commercial systems only allow users to select from a set of predefined parameters, such as specific pixel counts and line numbers, which restricts flexibility and adaptability in various imaging scenarios. Additionally, these systems typically lack synchronization capabilities for rapid 3D imaging, particularly along the z-axis, which is crucial for volumetric imaging. The inability to synchronize scanning mirrors with piezo stages further limits the speed and efficiency of capturing three-dimensional images. These constraints not only slow down the imaging process but also affect the quality and depth of the data collected, making it challenging to meet the growing demands of high-throughput biological research.

Technology description

The laser scanning system is a sophisticated imaging technology designed to capture detailed images of specimens through a high-speed laser scanning process. It utilizes a light source that emits a beam to illuminate the specimen, and a scanning unit equipped with multiple reflectors to direct the beam along two axes. The system is managed by a data acquisition unit and a control circuit that synchronizes the scanning operations using a reference clock signal. It can adjust imaging parameters such as the number of lines, field of view, and pixel count, and includes a translational device for specimen movement along a third axis. This flexibility allows for precise control over the imaging process, making it suitable for high-throughput, automated 3D imaging.

What differentiates this technology is its advanced synchronization techniques, which enable ultrafast imaging speeds and large fields of view, surpassing traditional laser scanning microscopes. The system's ability to independently adjust pixel numbers and field sizes makes it ideal for imaging specimens with high aspect ratios. Additionally, the integration with a microfluidic device allows for high-resolution imaging of living models, such as Caenorhabditis elegans, capturing dynamic biological processes at unprecedented speeds. This capability is not matched by existing optical imaging modalities, making it a powerful tool for volumetric imaging and functional analysis in biological research.

Benefits

High-speed imaging capability for rapid data acquisition
Automated 3D imaging and functional volumetric imaging
Flexible control over imaging parameters, including field of view and pixel count
Integration with microfluidic devices for specimen immobilization and manipulation
Enhanced synchronization techniques for improved imaging accuracy
Large field-of-view suitable for high-throughput imaging of specimens with high aspect ratios
Potential for ultrafast, high-resolution imaging of living small animal models
Reduction in photo-bleaching due to faster imaging speeds
Cost-effective compared to other high-speed imaging techniques
Efficient data storage and analysis due to flexible pixel and field-of-view selection