Confocal LSM 780
The Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope (LSM) 780, manufactured by Zeiss, is a high-resolution imaging system widely used in biological and biomedical research. It features advanced spectral detection and laser technology, enabling precise, three-dimensional imaging of cells, tissues, and subcellular structures. The LSM 780 uses multiple laser lines for fluorescence excitation, allowing simultaneous detection of multiple fluorophores. Its highly sensitive GaAsP detector enhances image clarity, especially in low-light conditions, making it ideal for studying cell dynamic processes.
The system is equipped with advanced image acquisition and analysis software, offering flexibility in experimental design, including z-stack acquisition experiments. Its minimization of photobleaching and phototoxicity ensures optimal imaging of delicate biological samples, providing critical insights into cell morphology, protein localization, and molecular interactions.
------------------------
Versa 3D DualBeam EM
The Versa 3D DualBeam Electron Microscope by FEI (now part of Thermo Fisher Scientific) is a cutting-edge imaging system that combines Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with Focused Ion Beam (FIB) technology in a single platform. This combination allows users to perform high-resolution imaging and nanometer-scale material modifications simultaneously. The SEM component offers exceptional imaging resolution down to 1.2 nm, while the FIB enables precise milling, patterning, and TEM lamella preparation using a gallium ion beam.
The Versa 3D is equipped with a Schottky field-emission electron gun and a patented UniColore monochromated electron source to improve low-voltage imaging, reduce chromatic aberration, and enhance surface detail resolution. It can operate under high vacuum, low vacuum, and environmental conditions (ESEM), enabling the analysis of various samples, including non-conductive and hydrated specimens.
Axio-observer Z1
The Zeiss Axio Observer Z1 is a high-performance inverted microscope designed for advanced research in life sciences, particularly in live-cell imaging and fluorescence microscopy. It provides versatile imaging capabilities, including 2D imaging of thin specimens such as single-cell layers and tissue cultures. The microscope supports a variety of contrast techniques, such as phase contrast, Differential Interference Contrast (DIC), and fluorescence, making it ideal for applications ranging from cell morphology studies to dynamic live-cell analysis.
This system is particularly suited for research requiring environmental control, as it supports CO₂ incubation and temperature regulation for live-cell experiments. It also integrates seamlessly with micromanipulation tools, making it a powerful platform for studies in cell biology, neuroscience, and pharmacology.
Nano-spray dryer
A nano-spray dryer is an advanced tool used to produce micro- and nanoparticles from solutions by atomizing liquid into fine droplets, quickly drying into solid particles. Unlike traditional spray dryers, nano-spray dryers like the Büchi Nano Spray Dryer B-90 employ a vibrating mesh atomizer for precise droplet generation and utilize electrostatic particle collectors to capture submicron particles efficiently. This technology is ideal for pharmaceuticals, materials science, and food science applications, enabling the encapsulation of sensitive compounds like vaccines, nanoparticles, or flavors. Its ability to work with small volumes and produce particles with narrow size distribution makes it crucial to develop inhalable drugs, enhance drug bioavailability, and create functional food additives.
Ultra-microtome
An ultra-microtome is a precision instrument used to cut ultra-thin sections of materials for nanoscale analysis, particularly for Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). It uses a diamond or glass knife to slice sections typically ranging from 30 to 100 nanometers in thickness, enabling detailed study of biological tissues, polymers, and nanomaterials. The technique involves embedding the sample in resin, trimming it to create a smooth surface, and then cutting the sections, which float on a water bath for easy collection onto grids for analysis.
Ultramicrotomy is crucial in biological sciences for examining cellular ultrastructure and in materials science for characterizing advanced materials like polymers and nanocomposites.
Real-time PCR
Real-time PCR (qPCR) is an advanced molecular technique used to amplify and simultaneously quantify DNA or RNA in real-time during the polymerase chain reaction process. Unlike traditional PCR, which only provides results at the end of the reaction, real-time PCR monitors the amplification process cycle-by-cycle, measuring the fluorescence emitted by dyes or probes as they bind to double-stranded DNA. This allows for the precise quantification of the target DNA or RNA, making it a powerful tool in diagnostics and research.
The technique relies on fluorescent reporters such as SYBR Green, which binds nonspecifically to double-stranded DNA, or TaqMan probes, which use sequence-specific probes labeled with a fluorescent reporter and quencher. As the target DNA is amplified, the probe degrades the quencher from the reporter and emits a measurable fluorescent signal. This process enables the detection of specific genes with high sensitivity and specificity.
Real-time PCR is widely used in fields such as clinical diagnostics, cancer research, pathogen detection, biotechnology, and agriculture. It has played a crucial role in viral detection, including the diagnosis of COVID-19. The method offers several advantages, such as rapid processing, high sensitivity, and the ability to multiplex, meaning multiple targets can be analyzed in the same reaction using different fluorescent dyes.
Flow cytometry
The BD FACSCanto II is a high-performance flow cytometer designed for advanced multicolor analysis. It can detect up to 8 fluorescent parameters and 2 scatter parameters in a single assay. It features a fixed-alignment flow cell to enhance reproducibility and minimize setup time. The system uses air-cooled lasers and integrates advanced fluidics with automated startup, shutdown, and cleaning cycles. This ensures consistent and reliable results for clinical and research applications in immunophenotyping, oncology, and infectious disease monitoring.
Equipped with BD FACSDiva™ software, the FACSCanto II allows for flexible data acquisition and analysis, while the optional FACS Loader automates sample handling, further streamlining high-throughput workflows. The system’s sensitivity is enhanced by innovative optical designs that maximize signal detection, making it an excellent tool for identifying rare cell populations and conducting complex immunological studies.