Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) Imaging Service

Introduction

Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) is a precision mode of optical microscopy that has revolutionized the realm of biological imaging. By employing a focused laser beam that scans a specimen in a raster pattern, CLSM offers unparalleled optical sectioning capabilities. Employing this method allows for the sample to be optically divided along the z-axis, producing optical segments of the object captured with exceptional differentiation and precision in the x, y, and z dimensions.

Fig.1 Principle of a confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM)¹.

Applications

CLSM plays a pivotal role in materials analysis, especially from fluorescence microscopy, optical sectioning, and chemical imaging perspectives. Its applications span across various sectors:

Medical Devices: Failure analysis to understand device malfunctions.
Aerospace Composites: Detailed morphology imaging using natural auto-fluorescence.
Food Industry: Gelation studies to improve texture performance and targeted delivery studies in complex biopolymer systems.
Microbiology: Assessment of the efficacy of biocides on microbial populations.
Beverage Industry: Understanding bubble structure and stabilization.
Materials Science: Enhancements to foam structure and morphology.
Moreover, the integration of Confocal Microscopy with Electron and Light Microscopy offers an unprecedented capability in studying structure-property relationships across diverse industry sectors.

Advantages

The primary advantage of CLSM is its ability to produce in-focus images from within thick specimens, a feat traditional microscopy struggles with. Utilizing confocal technology overcomes the drawbacks of traditional light microscopy, including resolution constraints. The CLSM, a sensitive non-touch fluorescence microscope, possesses optical sectioning prowess, obviating the necessity for slender material slices. This results in clearer, sharper images that can be used for detailed analysis.

Sample Requirements

Samples are fluorescently labeled.
Fixed or live tissues are used.
Fixed or live adherent cells should be cultured on confocal-specific dishes or cover slips.
For suspension cells, after spin coating or drop casting, seal with a cover slip.
The thickness of the slide should be between 0.8-1.2 mm, and the cover slip should be smooth, with a thickness of about 0.17 mm.
The sample's thickness must be controlled, avoiding excessive thickness that could lead to the absorption of excitation light mainly at the specimen's bottom. This would result in incomplete excitation of the upper portion visible through the objective lens.
Try to remove non-specific fluorescent signals.
Glycerol: PBS mixture (9:1) is often used as a sealing agent.

Creative Biolabs' CLSM-Imaging Service

At Creative Biolabs, we harness the power of CLSM to offer unparalleled imaging services. Our state-of-the-art Leica TCS SP8 X and SP5 microscopes, equipped with advanced features like Z-Stacking, FRAP, and FRET, ensure precision and clarity in every image captured. Our team of experts continuously explores new applications, especially where confocal microscopy can generate quantitative data in conjunction with image analysis.

For more information, please contact us.

FAQs

Q1: What makes CLSM different from traditional microscopy?

A: CLSM offers optical sectioning capabilities, allowing for in-focus imaging from within thick specimens. This is not possible with traditional microscopy.

Q2: How does Creative Biolabs ensure the quality of images captured using CLSM?

A: We employ state-of-the-art equipment and a team of experts who ensure that every image captured meets the highest standards of clarity and precision.

Q3: Are there any materials or specimens that cannot be analyzed using CLSM?

A: While CLSM is versatile, the suitability of a specimen for CLSM analysis depends on its optical properties. It's best to consult with our team for specific requirements.

Reference

Schneckenburger, Herbert, and Verena Richter. "Laser Scanning versus Wide-Field—Choosing the Appropriate Microscope in Life Sciences." Applied sciences 11.2 (2021): 733.

Note: All of our products are for Research Use Only (RUO). NOT intended for diagnostic, therapeutic or clinical use. We DO NOT offer patients any direct products or services. No products from Creative Biolabs may be resold, modified for resale or used to manufacture commercial products without prior written approval from Creative Biolabs.