COS7 cells, immunostained for alpha-tubulin AlexaFluor647. Image is a stitching from 3×3 field of views, blended together according to their optimal path of structure. Single images were taken using the 2s configuration of the RCM in NIS Elements. Images courtesy of Andreas Kurz from the Sauer Laboratory at the University of Würzburg.

Confocal Microscopy: Getting the Most from Working Systems

Jan 30 2019

Re-scan Confocal Microscopy (RCM), a concept developed by the Manders Group at the University of Amsterdam and available from Confocal.nl has been enabling the upgrade of a user’s existing microscopy modules for higher performance and use in different application areas.

PhD student, Andreas Kurz works in The Sauer Laboratory at the University of Würzburg, where a turnkey RCM solution has been adopted: “We integrated the RCM module from Confocal.nl to our existing single molecule dSTORM setup to establish a new correlative imaging technique. As RCM is based on image scanning, it intrinsically has super-resolution capabilities (170 nm) combined with the advantages of a conventional confocal microscope. Now with this combined correlative imaging setup, a new variety of experiments are possible. Recording dynamic processes and the long-term observation of cell activity followed by resolving the structure of interest, a superb resolution of around 20 nm will now be possible.”

He also said that the enhanced version of confocal microscopy allowed observation of sensitive samples and more complex imaging procedures at a higher resolution than other confocal microscopies. “This system is now used to complement other techniques such as structured illumination microscopy, single molecule localisation microscopy setups and light sheet illumination microscopy.

“Our experimental set-up is a unique, fast-scanning, resolution-enhanced and live-cell capable system configured for both dSTORM and RCM that delivers super-resolution performance. Our main reasons for purchase have been realised in terms of performance of the complete package integrating our existing components at a very fair price,” he added.

Speaking about the installation at Würzburg, Confocal.nl’s CEO, Peter Drent, says “We were extremely pleased to have Professor Sauer’s team select the RCM. They provided precise requirements from which we have been able to configure an excellent, working system with high resolution and sensitivity.”

Company CTO Dr Eric Manders added: “When we talk to prospective users about their confocal expectations, we start by finding out about their current instrumentation. This core information enables us to propose a custom-designed solution at a most affordable price point.”