UltraMicroscope Blaze™

As the generated light sheet diverges, it approximates a plane only over a given horizontal range. This is where the light sheet is thinnest and where fluorescence detection takes place. To achieve an appropriate illumination for a particular sample, the planar range of the light sheet has to be matched with the sample size and the desired field of view (FOV). The light sheet of the UltraMicroscope Blaze is tailored to the sample size by using adjustable light sheet parameters.

A low numerical aperture (NA) of illumination results in a broad FOV at the expense of a low Z-resolution when imaging large samples (A). In contrast, a high NA results in a high Z-resolution and a narrow FOV suitable for imaging small samples (B), with a full range of gradations in between. Where both high Z-resolution and a large FOV are essential, for example when imaging larger samples, the UltraMicroscope Blaze offers dynamic horizontal focusing. To that end, a sequential series of high-resolution images are taken across the desired FOV and automatically stitched together into a single high-quality image by our ImSpector image acquisition software (C).

The UltraMicroscope Blaze with its AO configuration can host up to three MI Plan objective lenses. Generally, objective lenses can produce artifacts that increase in severity with the size of FOV. However, the flat-field correction in the MI Plan objectives generate images that are in focus throughout the area of interest. The MI Plan objective series is designed and optimized for high-resolution light sheet imaging. The combination of flat-field correction and long working distances makes these objectives well suited for imaging large samples. They can be coupled to a wide variety of dipping caps that allow high-resolution and distortion-free imaging in all clearing solutions, whether based on aqueous or organic solvents (refractive indices between 1.33 and 1.56).

The cutting-edge illumination optics of the UltraMicroscope Blaze generates multiple light sheets that overlap in the desired FOV and excite the sample from both sides. This results in a uniform illumination profile, improved optical sectioning, and thereby a higher image quality.

Most clearing reagents differ from protocol to protocol, and so do their optical properties. Light can travel differently in different imaging media, which can create distortions and thereby lower the image quality. To compensate for this, the UltraMicroscope Blaze’s onboard software allows users to choose between various predefined clearing and imaging solutions. This provides the perfect setting for every imaging media.

The UltraMicroscope Blaze comes with a standard sample chamber that allows imaging of multiple rodent organs or organoids for a total volume of 35 cm³. In addition to this, the XXL chamber is a valuable upgrade for both new and existing UltraMicroscope Blaze Imaging Systems. It provides the largest possible sample space and enables imaging of samples up to a volume of 53 cm³. It comes with a sample holder that is specially designed for this chamber. Note: The two rear objective lenses must be removed before using this chamber. Therefore, only one objective can be used in combination with this sample chamber at a time.