The Leica TCS SMD FLIM is a dedicated system for FLIM measurements. These measurements reveal information about the direct neighborhood of molecules on the nanometer scale. The local conditions can determine folding states that influence the reactivity of molecules.
Furthermore, FLIM is used for binding studies (FLIM-FRET) and to identify measurement conditions and allows the setup of FLIM time series or FLIM stacks.
Special features
- Online display of Fast-FLIM-images, count rate and photon number allow to evaluate data quality during a running experiment
- A variety of pulsed lasers from UV via VIS to MP excitation can be selected according to the researchers needs
- Spectral FLIM detection combines lifetime and spectral information for the analysis of more complex fluorescence properties
- Leica TCS SMD FLIM systems equipped with PDM APDs from MPD are ready for an upgrade with FCS to an Leica TCS SMD FLCS system
Typical FLIM applications
Non-stained samples:
- Metabolic state characterization
- Cancer research: identification of modified cells
- Plant physiology: pathogen-host interaction
- Identification of chitin of lignin structures
Stained samples:
- Energy transfer (FLIM-FRET for molecule binding)
- Molecular sub-states (e.g. isomerization, protonation)
- Local concentration of ions and small ligands
- Environmental studies (viscosity, refractive index, pH)
- Dye separation
- Photophysical dye properties
Application Example (antennae of scale insect)
3D rendering of FLIM z-stack using autofluorescence. Color coded lifetime images were segmented according to chitin lifetime for isosurface rendering (green) and volume rendering of surrounding structures (red). Rendering was done using external software. Sample courtesy of Prof. Kees Jalink, NKI, Amsterdam, Netherlands
