Scientists Develop Rapid-Scanning Microscope with No Compromise on Image Quality

By G.P. ThomasAug 28 2012

A rapid-scanning digital microscope technique has been developed by researchers from the Department of Cell Physiology and Pharmacology at the University of Leicester.

The microscope is capable of producing an image 100 times faster than standard microscopes without compromising on the quality of the image. The technique involves a new type of confocal microscope which can be fastened on to regular microscopes. The design is inspired by consumer electronic products like television. The device employs a system of programmable mirrors which are used to cast illumination patterns on the samples under study. The light that traverses the plane of focus alone returns on the same path and forms an image when reflected on a camera by the mirrors.

The device is flexible and easy to use because the pattern of illumination can be varied by adjusting the size and shape of the digital mirrors for different samples under varied conditions. The image quality is greatly enhanced by the rejection of unnecessary light reflected from portions of the sample that are not in focus. The images captured using the device can be scanned at 100 frames per second by interfacing with a computer. Biological processes can be viewed at speeds enabled never before. The device is robust and has the added advantage of being free of moving parts. The device will be of great use in neuroscience and biomedical research.