Light-Sheet Geometries
Created by Scientists for Scientists
Bruker's light-sheet microscopes are equipped to handle the diversity of life science experiments and biological samples. A horizontal, multi-view setup with the MuVi SPIM and an inverted, open-top setup from the InVi SPIM Lattice Pro, TruLive3D Imager, and LCS SPIM ensure that researchers can use the correct light-sheet geometry for their experiments. Key considerations when selecting which geometry to use include:
- Sample Size and Shape: The range of Bruker light-sheet microscopes accommodate imaging from individual cells via tissue sections and organs to entire organisms.
- Resolution and Magnification: Scientists might need lower or higher resolutions and magnification depending on their specific questions. Bruker’s solutions allow the study of systems across scales, from molecules to organisms.
- Imaging Depth: Light-sheet imaging allows for greater imaging depths than confocal microscopy. Imaging depth can be pushed further using sample clearing, multi-view geometries, and advanced beam steering.
- Temporal Resolution: Some biological processes occur rapidly and require high-speed imaging techniques to capture them effectively. On the other hand, other samples, such as large, cleared sample imaging, require tiling and multi-point acquisition to capture them in their entirety.
- Specialized Applications: Specialized applications need specialized techniques, such as super-resolution imaging or photomanipulation, which may require a specific setup.
Horizontal Multi-View Setup
The horizontal multi-view setup, which has two illumination and two detection objectives, is the core of the MuVi SPIM light-sheet microscope. The 4-axis concept allows simultaneous acquisition from two detection sides, enabling two orthogonal views without the need for rotation.
A simple exchange of the optical and sample chamber unit, called the octagon, makes the MuVi SPIM equipped for live samples (sample supported from below) or cleared samples (sample hanging or embedded from above). The MuVi SPIM geometry enables unparalleled acquisition speed, correction of shadowing effects, and high precision of data fusion.
Inverted Open-Top Setup
The TruLive3D Imager, LCS SPIM, and InVi SPIM Lattice Pro are inverted light-sheet microscopes with optics below the sample, featuring an open top for easy sample mounting, incubation, and access for sample manipulation.
The TruLive3D Imager and LCS SPIM have two illumination and one detection objective, while the InVi Lattice Pro SPIM has a single illumination and detection objective.
The TruLive3D Imager and the InVi Lattice Pro SPIM have V-shaped sample holders ideal for cell culture and fragile sample applications (such as organoid maturation, zebrafish, or mouse embryo development). Different strategies can be used to place samples in the holder. 2D cells can be grown directly on the foil, serving as a "curved cover glass." 3D spheroids or small embryos can be dropped into the trough and held by gravitation or gel, allowing multiple samples to be arranged for multi-position imaging.
For the LCS SPIM, samples are mounted in quartz cuvettes, which come in three sizes to accommodate small, medium, and large samples (2x2x2 cm, 3x3x6 cm, 3x3x10 cm; width x height x length).