CARS Microscope - Label Free Imaging Leica TCS SP8 CARS
Staining is unnecessary when imaging specimens with the TCS SP8 CARS (Coherent anti-Stokes Raman Scattering) confocal microscope. The CARS technology exploits image contrast arising from characteristic vibrational states of different molecules within a specimen. As no labeling is required, the specimen remains almost unaffected from preparation and imaging.
Users benefit from its ability to image, at high speed and resolution, a wide range of live specimens, including cells, tissues, and even small organisms. To achieve this performance, the microscope offers visible, infrared (IR), and ultraviolet (UV) lasers, second harmonic generation (SHG), and CARS.
Due to its flexibility and convenient handling, the TCS SP8 CARS is a superb instrument for research institutes and multi-user facilities.
Stimulated Raman Scattering (SRS) Option
On request, we provide a fully-integrated Stimulated Raman Scattering (SRS) option.
Key Features
Imaging of native specimens without dyes
The limitations of dye-based imaging methods are overcome via integration of the label-free CARS technology into the TCS SP8 confocal platform. No staining of the specimen is needed as image contrast is provided by the characteristic, intrinsic vibrational states of the different molecules in the specimen. Thus, CARS does not suffer from photobleaching and staining artifacts.
Multispectral imaging with VIS, UV, IR, SHG, and CARS
The TCS SP8 CARS platform provides various imaging methods, such as Coherent anti-Stokes Raman Scattering (CARS), single photon or multiphoton fluorescence, second harmonic generation (SHG), or imaging with infrared (IR), visible (VIS), and ultraviolet (UV) lasers in simultaneous or sequential mode.
The laser source, scanner model, and imaging mode can be optimized for the application of interest through the LAS X software. The ergonomic and intuitive handling helps to ensure that ambitious experiments run smoothly.
Easy setup of experiments with a fully integrated system
The compact CARS laser is fully controlled through the LAS X software. The integration of the laser control into the software makes the sophisticated process of adjusting multiple system parameters completely transparent. This solution offers the most convenient way to perform CARS experiments for both experts and novices alike.
Fast frame rate and high resolution in one system
The TCS SP8 CARS microscope is equipped with a Tandem Scanner. It combines a conventional scanner, useful for many specimen morphologies and conventional-speed, live-cell applications, and a resonant scanner, enabling many high-speed options. This combination of scanners makes the microscope flexible, so it can meet user needs and application demands. It is an excellent instrument for multi-user facilities.
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