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Visualising and quantifying biological systems

We use a range of optical microscopy techniques, many are fluorescence-based, to visualise and quantify the properties of biological systems.  We can examine:

  • peptides and proteins
  • mammalian and bacterial cells (2D and 3D cultures)
  • multicellular systems (organoids and spheroids)
  • model organisms and tissues across scales of length, time and complexity.

 

 

Method

Summary

Good for

Structured  Illumination Microscopy (SIM)

 

Fast (up to ~ 20 frames per second) super-resolution imaging (lateral resolution ~ 130 nm)

2D cell cultures, some 3D systems. Live cell imaging. Subcellular dynamics

Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM)

High resolution 3D point scanning microscopy

2D and 3D cell cultures and systems

Light Sheet Microscopy (LSM)

Fast 3D imaging with sub µm spatial resolution over large (mm-sized) sample volumes with reduced light exposure.

3D cell cultures and multicellular systems, tissues and organisms. Long duration time lapse imaging

Two Photon Excited Fluorescence Microscopy (TPEFM)

Deep 3D imaging inside a range of samples

2D and 3D cell cultures and systems, tissues and organisms.

Typical applications include:

These services are delivered using the following equipment:

  • Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope (Leica Stellaris and Olympus FV-1000)
  • Structured Illumination Fluorescence Microscope (custom-built)
  • Airy beam light sheet microscope (Aurora, M Squared)
  • Upright two photon microscope (custom-built)
  • High performance computing systems for image analysis


We also have supporting facilities for cell culture and microbiology (Cat 2 laboratoires), sample preparation (mounting and fluorescent labelling) and optogenetics.

Don’t see what you are looking for? Our diverse skill set enables us to provide bespoke solutions. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Contact us

Case study

Supporting new routes for therapeutic drug delivery

Article

Research

We develop cutting edge measurement tools and methods to unlock new applications, from drug discovery to synthetic biology. Our knowledge of biophysical measurements helps us understand the relationship between biological systems and processes.

Work with us

Our research and measurement solutions support innovation and product development. We work with companies to deliver business advantage and commercial success.
Contact our Customer Services team on +44 20 8943 7070