A new inverted microscope for biotech and other life science laboratories was designed to readily accommodate modifications and upgrades to allow it to keep current with changing research demands and interests.

Modularity is the key concept defining the new Leica Microsystems (Wetzlar, Germany) DMi8 inverted microscope, and the core of this concept is the unique illumination port, the "Infinity Port." This port facilitates the integration of additional light sources and laser systems for advanced applications.

To augment the Infinity Port, the Leica DMi8 boasts an innovative closed-loop focus system accurate to 20 nm over a 12 mm travel range, which enables researchers to scan large specimens with high precision.

Modules available for use with the DMi8 allow the user to take advantage of the full range of contrast methods from brightfield, integrated modulation contrast, phase contrast to darkfield, differential interference contrast, and fluorescence.

Use of different analysis channels for different fluorescence stains allows the user to analyze several aspects of a sample at the same time. An individual workflow can be assigned to each analysis channel. For example a binary reference mask can be applied to obtain object specific data, such as counting the number of spots in each nucleus. Alternatively, multiple analysis channels can be applied to the same image. Healthy cells can be counted on a stained color image in one analysis channel while a second analysis channel is used to count abnormal cells.

"The Leica DMi8 is an open and freely configurable inverted research microscope which meets the current and future needs of life scientists in a single platform," said Bernard Kleine, product manager at Leica Microsystems. "Universality and individuality have been the heart of our development work. With the Leica DMi8 we serve customer needs ranging from plain microscopy to advanced research applications, and pay heed to the fact that tasks and applications in research change. The Leica DMi8 combines the versatility of an open platform with the user-friendliness of a system solution."

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