Nikon BioStation
Modalities: invert, widefield, live cell, long time-lapse
Overview
The Nikon BioStation CT allows the imaging of cells without ever removing them from the incubator, it is therefore an ideal platform to image for long periods ‘sensitive’ cells in culture.
It has the capacity to permit the running of multiple experiments at the same time. Briefly, the system is comprised of a typical tissue culture incubator with the essentials of a fluorescence microscope inside. It is capable of three-colour (violet, green and red) imaging as well as capturing phase-contrast images.
The BioStation CT can accommodate up to 30 vessels ranging from 96 well plates to 75cm2 flasks. All manipulations of the vessels within the Bio-Station CT are automated and are carried out by a robotic arm.
CO2 , humidity, and temperature can all be regulated within the incubator.
The BioStation CT is capable of imaging from 2x to 10x phase images with apodized phase contrast (APC) optics. Fluorescence images are obtained using three color LED illumination. A color macro view allows the entire vessel to be viewed from above. Multi point multi-well imaging is achieved through a precision-controlled motorized XY-stage. Autofocus control and motorized Z acquisition ensures that images are always captured in the same focal plane.
Sample security measures mean that users access only the samples for which they have clearance. Experimental results are reliably traced and can be accessed remotely via an internet connection or LAN.
Imaging modes
- multi point x,y (2D) with tiling
- volume x,y,z (3D)
- flourescence
- phase
- time lapse x,y,z,t (4D)