Interactive Microscopy through Optofluidics and Thermoviscous Flows

At our screening center, we are revolutionizing biological research with the integration of cutting-edge techniques like optofluidics via thermoviscous flows, especially through focused-light-induced cytoplasmic streaming (FLUCS). These innovative methodologies, described in our recent publications including Erbenet al. (2024), bring a new level of interactivity and precision to microscopy, ensuring that the right things happen to be at the right place at the right time.

Principles of FLUCS

FLUCS utilizes mid-infrared laser scanning to create localized thermoviscous flows within the cellular environment. By scanning an infrared laser at 1455 nm across a defined path, we establish localized temperature gradients that generate controlled cytoplasmic flows. These flows enable precise repositioning of intracellular components such as organelles, proteins, and other essential cellular structures without physical contact.

Applications in Cellular Assemblies

The versatility of FLUCS and optofluidic techniques is profound for the preparation and manipulation of cellular assemblies:

Cellular Assembly: These techniques facilitate the creation of complex cellular structures by manipulating cells and their components with remarkable accuracy. This facilitates advanced biological studies and screenings that require intricate cellular organization.

Targeted Manipulations: FLUCS allows for the precise intracellular positioning of organelles, specific molecules and drugs, aiding in the study of their immediate effects and interactions within the cellular milieu.

Dynamic Probing: By enabling real-time observation and manipulation of cellular components, FLUCS helps in studying cellular kinetics, signaling pathways, and the behavior of biomolecules under various conditions.

 

Enhancing Interactivity in Microscopy

These techniques transform traditional microscopy into a dynamic and interactive experience. Researchers can now engage directly with live cells during experiments, offering live and actionable insights. This interactivity makes microscopy more engaging and effective, fostering a deeper understanding of cellular processes and biological interactions.
Ensuring Precision and Timing 

One of the most significant advantages of FLUCS is its ability to ensure spatial and temporal precision. This is crucial for studies requiring high fidelity in the localization and timing of cellular events:

 

  1. Targeted Manipulations: By allowing precise positioning of intacellular components like proteins, FLUCS aids in detailed studies of cell signaling pathways and metabolic processes.
  2. Temporal Control: The ability to induce and control cellular flows dynamically ensures that cellular responses can be studied accurately in real time, providing a better understanding of rapid intracellular events.

 

 

Visit our screening center to witness the transformative capabilities of FLUCS and optofluidic techniques in making microscopy interactive and precise. Here, your experiments will benefit from a level of control and engagement that ensures that every detail is captured and every cellular interaction is understood. With FLUCS and optofluidics, we bring you a future where the limits of cellular manipulation and microscopy are continually redefined.