The power of nanoscopy
Most super-resolution techniques today are based on fluorescence microscopy. Super-resolution microscopy is a relatively new technology that makes it possible to see small details that are impossible to see with traditional optical microscopy. Our contribution to nanoscopy is the introduction of a novel chip concept comprising a waveguide that allows for better illumination of a much larger area compared to existing technology.
Chip NanoImaging super-resolution microscopy demonstrated on a liver cell stained for F-actin.
Easily switch between EPI and TIRF illumination using ACP-ZERO
Epifluorescence (EPI) illuminates the entire sample, exciting fluorophores throughout the volume. While Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence (TIRF) selectively excites fluorophores close to the surface, resulting in high contrast and reduced background fluorescence.
Schematic illustrates the difference between EPI and TIRF illumination. EPI (right) illuminates the entire volume of the sample and excites all fluorescent molecules. The TIRF illumination (left) selectively illuminates fluorescent molecules within the exponentially decaying evanescent wave. A membrane stain demonstrates the difference between EPI (right) and TIRF (left) illumination.
PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
ACP ZERO specialises in accessible and robust TIRF imaging. Our multimode waveguide technology decouples the illumination and imaging pathway. The imaging path follows conventional standards, while the illumination path occurs via waveguides patterned on the surface of a photonic chip. There are several waveguides in parallel on top of the chip, allowing for imaging within an active waveguide while preserving neighbouring fluorophores. The sample is placed or grown directly on top of the chip and laser light is automatically coupled into the waveguide. The evanescent field from the waveguide penetrates the sample and excites the fluorophores which are then detected by an upright microscope.
