A CARV II Confocal Imager from Image Solutions (UK) Ltd is helping scientists at Royal Holloway, University of London, to better understand how memory functions at the molecular level.
For a number of years, Dr. Pavlos Alifragis and his team at the Universityâs School of Biological Sciences have been investigating the molecular mechanisms responsible for generating different types of neurons within the cerebral cortex.
Unique to mammals, the cerebral cortex is responsible for all cognitive functions. To function properly, it requires the proper specification of a multitude of neurons that will, in turn, communicate with each other via an intricate network of specialised connections called synapses.
The CARV II Confocal Imager from Preston-based Image Solutions offers high-speed, multi-point confocal scanning combined with a high quantum
efficiency charge coupled device (CCD) cameras.
This minimises photobleaching of fluorescent dyes used in imaging while allowing real-time imaging and recording at up to 100 frames per second. A long life arc source coupled to the instrument via an alignment free light guide allows for full spectrum 360-700nm)
confocal imaging of virtually any fluorescent probe.