Robotic-Controlled Multi-Spectrum Microscope

It has been difficult to identify biological information that shows genetic interactions with other genes or stress signals (e.g. synthetic lethality). Identification of such genetic interactions is extremely useful in understanding the cellular pathways involved in plant research (such as DNA sequencing, transfer, manipulation, etc.) or in medical research (such as cancer, gene therapy, etc.). In recent years, fluorescence assay technologies have played an increasing role in high-throughput analysis of gene/protein interactions. These fluorescence-based assay systems are expected to facilitate in vivo/vitro analysis of protein interactions on a genome-wide level. One of the most crucial and laborious steps in such fluorescence assay systems is to obtain the protein samples labeled with fluorescent dyes. Sophisticated microscopes have been developed for this application. However, they are designed to operate manually, which consumes time and is definitely not suitable for space and remote applications.

WCSAR, in collaboration with its industry partner, has developed a robotic-controlled multi-spectrum microscope which offers:

		The detection of fluorescence and fluorescent labelings in two stages (stage 1: fluorescence illumination detection and stage 2: illuminant expression analysis)
		A miniaturized 5-DOF robotic manipulator allowing for autonomous detection, using a unique searching algorithm, and tele-operated detection, using precision hand-controller and high resolution video/images (visual feed back).
		Telescience capability to allow for remote control of the robotic manipulator (by sending remote commands) and remote analysis of fluorescence (via data/image/video telemetry), which is very useful to space exploration and hazard/contamination related applications.
		Auto-configuration feature to allow self-selection of desired wavelengths for excitation and emssion filters.

For more information, please contact:

Dr. Weijia Zhou 608-262-5526