Citation Index 4
High Resolution Imaging Microscope (HIRIM)
Mary M. Yang, William J. Coleman, Chris M. Silva, Michael R. Dilworth,
Edward J. Bylina, and Douglas C. Youvan
Bldg. 62*
3350 Scott Blvd.
Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA
Received: 11/15/97
Accepted: 1/28/98
Research Editor: Dr. Simon Delagrave
Abstract
The High Resolution Imaging Microscope (HIRIM) is a microspectrophotometer which is capable of determining the individual absorption spectra of complex groupings of microscopic features in a massively parallel manner. We demonstrate here the feasibility of obtaining high resolution spectra of pigmented or stained biological material with this instrument. The spectra of individual marine and freshwater microorganisms and hematoxylin and eosin stained thin sections for histopathology are presented as examples of HIRIM's ability to extract spectral data from morphological features. To perform this task, a digital imaging spectrophotometer (DIS) previously configured for macroscopic samples has been redesigned and constructed. The prototype HIRIM instrument is able to simultaneously acquire spatial and spectral information on hundreds of algae and cyanobacteria immobilized on slides. Absorption due to chlorophyll, phycobilins, carotenoids and other pigments can be readily determined from individual cell spectra. The utility of this microscope for potential applications in microbiology, medicine, remote sensing, biotechnology, engineering, materials processing and quality control are discussed.
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© Biotechnology et alia, 1998
*Current address: 10225 Barnes Canyon Rd., A110 San Diego, CA 92121 USA