Analyzing fast processes in the cell

Carl Zeiss has developed the DirectFRAP imaging system for all microscope users in cell biology and molecular genetics who examine processes in living cells on the basis of fluorescence-labeled proteins. Thanks to its operating principle and the photomanipulation in the wide field, DirectFRAP opens up the possibility of also studying highly dynamic processes in the cell and receiving detailed image information at the same time. It can be used on the Axio Observer microscope system from Carl Zeiss and allows the photomanipulation of a region of interest (ROI) in the specimen with laser light and the direct observation of the subsequent processes.

All versions of photomanipulation are possible: bleaching of GFP, photoactivation of PA-GFP, conversion of Dendra, reversible on/off switching of Dronpa, and others. Laser pulse control and data acquisition are performed by the ZEISS AxioVision software.

The extremely short pulse times of DirectFRAP and the benefits of widefield microscopy such as short exposure times and larger observation field for fast processes offer optimal conditions for highly dynamic experiments like the examination of the interaction of proteins with macromolecules in the cell. The time sequence of the processes is clearly resolved.

The diaphragm options enable a high level of flexibility during experiments. This permits the use of DirectFRAP for answering dynamics-related questions or for the manipulation of fine cell structures. For this purpose, a broad spectrum of geometric ROI shapes is available on a diaphragm wheel in the slider for DirectFRAP. In addition to constant laser intensity when the diaphragm size is changed, the main benefit of the principle is the simultaneous manipulation of all points of the ROI.

DirectFRAP can be optionally used with other Carl Zeiss imaging systems such as Laser TIRF 3 or Cell Observer SD (Spinning Disc). System combinations allow the observation of processes in only one Z plane and are ideal, for example, for the isolated examination of small cell structures. The same lasers can be used simultaneously for DirectFRAP and Laser TIRF 3 or Cell Observer SD.

DirectFRAP helps to record dynamic processes in the cell. Changes in these processes over time can also be recognized in detail. Reactions of the cell can be examined in detail, for example. Fast, cellular processes become transparent.

More information: www.zeiss.de/DirectFRAP

Text on the Internet: www.zeiss.de/micro-press.

Carl Zeiss AG

Carl Zeiss AG is a leading group of companies operating worldwide in the optical and opto-electronic industries. The five independently operating business groups are active in the future-oriented markets of Medical and Research Solutions, Industrial Solutions and Lifestyle Products. Founded in 1846 in Jena, the company is headquartered in Oberkochen, Germany. Carl Zeiss AG is fully owned by the Carl Zeiss Stiftung (Carl Zeiss Foundation). During fiscal year 2007/08 (ended Sept. 30), the company generated revenues of EUR 2,731 million. Carl Zeiss has around 13,000 employees in more than 30 countries, including over 8,000 in Germany.

Carl Zeiss MicroImaging GmbH

Carl Zeiss MicroImaging GmbH is a 100% subsidiary of Carl Zeiss AG. The leading manufacturer of microscope systems offers total solutions for biomedical research, the healthcare sector and high-tech industries. The product line spans a broad spectrum from light microscopes and systems for laser scanning microscopy and spectrometry to hardware and software for image processing and documentation.

Microscopes from Carl Zeiss allow scientists to gain important knowledge about diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s and tuberculosis. This results in new diagnostic techniques and better drugs for therapy. ZEISS microscopes support the development of new materials and enable more efficient quality inspection in industry.

Carl Zeiss MicroImaging GmbH is headquartered in Jena. Other manufacturing and development sites are located in Göttingen and Munich. During fiscal year 2007/08, the Microscopy Group at Carl Zeiss generated revenues of approximately EUR 340 million with a global workforce of about 1,700.