Using optical sections to examine the dynamics of living specimens easily and quickly

The VivaTome for fluorescence microscopes from Carl Zeiss is an optimal tool for developmental and cell biologists to examine the dynamics of living specimens without extensive prior knowledge of optical sectioning. For the visualization of fast processes, VivaTome is an attractively-priced solution that offers outstanding ease of use and excellent results. It is designed for applications where temporal resolution is a priority. This system provides clear, easy-to-interpret and quantifiable results for biological specimens—regardless of whether it is a cell structure, a tissue section or a living organism.

With a low level of technical complexity, VivaTome delivers high-quality microscope images that have only been possible with highly advanced systems until now. Using simple and economical white light illumination, frame rates of up to 30 frames a second are achieved. With the VivaTome, the entire spectrum of ZEISS objective lenses can be used with a consistently high optical section quality.

VivaTome captures the widefield and the optical section data simultaneously, ensuring that no information is lost. It can be attached to the ZEISS Axio Observer, Axio Imager and Axio Examiner microscope systems using a simple c-mount. Existing widefield systems are easily retrofitted.

The VivaTome is the result of the collaboration between Carl Zeiss and Aurox Ltd. (Oxford, UK). It is based on the aperture correlation principle developed by Tony Wilson and collaborators at the University of Oxford.

Further information is available at: www.zeiss.de/vivatome

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.

Further information is available at: www.zeiss.de/micro