Challenges in Fast Volumetric Live-Cell Imaging

The talk will focus on various challenges faced by researchers in fast volumetric imaging. Conventionally, fluorescent imaging techniques acquire 3D spatial information in a sequential or scanning fashion, inevitably compromising temporal resolution and increasing photodamage for live imaging. Many neuronal and physiological processes occur at very high speeds, making it difficult to accurately capture their spatiotemporal dynamics. Although established technologies have become faster, the required acquisition time still increases with sample volume, so fast processes like neuronal activity or heartbeats require a trade-off between volumetric information and image frame rate.

New technology for instant volumetric imaging at high speed can acquire comprehensive 3D information with a single snap and say goodbye to any time delay within an imaged volume. For the first time, capture the fastest movements within whole organisms at up to 80 volumes per second – with all spatiotemporal information intact. Crawling larvae, beating hearts, flowing blood, and firing neurons can be studied in 3D at unprecedented speed to unravel the secrets of life. It is possible to follow neuronal activity in zebrafish brains, track tissue movement in developing Drosophila embryos, and keep track of moving structures in crawling C. elegans larvae. Highly time-resolved particle tracking in complete volumes is finally possible. Start your experiments immediately – on your confocal and without the need to adjust sample preparation.