Monthly Newsletter

Olympus' new BX3 microscope systems are designed with the user in mind to maximise the quality of fluorescence images captured as part of life science research projects. The high-end BX63 system comfortably handles day-to-day applications, while boasting a range of advanced features to satisfy the most complex of needs, including rapid deconvolution of fluorescent Z-stack images. This approach is particularly useful for imaging thicker samples at high magnification, such as tissues and cells. Deconvolution removes the out-of-focus blur from each image in the Z-stack to improve clarity and increase the precision of downstream analyses. This can only be accurately achieved if the distance between the Z-stack images is stringently controlled. Therefore, the fully-automated BX63 frame employs a high-precision focusing mechanism adjusted using the nosepiece, rather than the stage, which increases system stability and maximises Z-resolution. When combined with the cellSens software suite and deconvolution solution module, the rapid creation of extremely accurate deconvolved fluorescent images is only a few clicks away.

Image deconvolution is a powerful tool in life science research that removes out-of-focus blur and allows the user to create images in which every detail is clearly resolved. This technique is particularly useful when investigating cellular organelles or thick samples at high magnification, as these conditions reduce the depth of field and exacerbate the blurring effect of out-of-focus light. To achieve this without the use of a confocal microscope requires accurate Z-position information, high frame stability, quality optics and complex software algorithms. For this reason, the BX63 frame is fully automated to facilitate extremely precise control of sample movement and focal position. In addition, the microscope is uniquely focused using the nosepiece, allowing the stage to remain fixed in position, thereby increasing stability and accuracy.

To make deconvolution a powerful tool for use in life science research, it needs to be fast and easy to carry out. Using the cellSens software suite, the BX63 can be intuitively controlled making it simple to plan and perform experiments. The Deconvolution Solution module creates sharp images that allow researchers to extract as much information as possible from an experiment, including structures, iso-surfaces and projections (via the included Voxel Viewer).

For more information visit www.microscopy.olympus.eu