Multiphoton imaging is one of the most powerful life science research tools of the 21st century and Scientifica has acknowledged this with the launch of a modular Multiphoton Imaging System

For the first time, it allows the user to build a cost effective and future proof system based around the renowned SliceScope microscope.

Multiphoton imaging uses high intensity pulsed lasers, fast moving mirrors, and precision optics to allow researchers to image structure and activity within living tissue. A laser spot is scanned quickly over a sample, exciting dyes within the tissue. The emitted light is collected with sensitive photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) and the image is captured and displayed on a PC screen.

"We wanted to offer researchers a flexible, cost-effective solution when it comes to multiphoton imaging," says Mark Johnson, joint managing director at Queen's Award winner Scientifica. "The option of a DIY system or fully integrated package offers crucial flexibility for a variety of users with different experience, requirements and budgets - opening more opportunities for labs around the world to utilise this echnique."

Scientifica's system allows the user to image deep into living tissue, while sustaining a healthy sample. Whether working with tissue sections in vitro, or with whole organisms in vivo, the use of short pulses of high energy IR light decreases the average laser power reaching the sample and reduces phototoxicity.

Scientifica's exclusive Scanhead design achieves diffraction limited resolution by optimising the size and shape of the excitation laser spot at the sample. This allows researchers to visualise the finest biological structures essential for investigating morphology and live activity within samples. For visualising larger structures, the unique relay lens system offers high quality capture of your entire field of view by preventing vignetting and loss of fluorescent signal at the edge of the image.

Efficient photon gathering, via the PMT's, can be accomplished from a range of objectives, this produces a brighter image using less laser intensity to excite the dyes, while allowing even very weak signals to be detected. Scientifica's high quality detection units use custom optics, mechanics and noise-reducing electronics to achieve superior signal to noise ratio by maximising light collection either above or below your sample.

A range of open-source software packages are also available from either ScanImage or Helioscan to offer versatile and continually evolving platforms for experimental control. The elegant and exceptional quality offered by Scientifica allows effortless integration with other popular experimental techniques including electrophysiology; broadening access and appeal for this ground breaking technique.

For more information visit www.scientifica.uk.com