IonOptix Calcium Imaging System

ionoptix
IonOptix Calcium Imaging System

This system is good for:

  • Living cells
  • Calcium imaging
  • Time lapse

This system is not good for:

  • Subcellular resolution
  • Inexperienced users and infrequent user (due to relatively long training time)

Function of Instrument

This system is designed primarily for time-lapse high-speed imaging of intracellular calcium in living cells using Fura 2.

Overview

The system uses an intensified CCD camera and chopper wheel to rapidly switch between 340 and 380 nm excitation. The software allows for background correction and easy calibration so that numerical values as well as images of calcium concentration in time can be obtained. The system can yield 30 ratiometric calcium images per second.

Training, Usage and Maintenance

  • Training involves familiarizing the user with the appropriate turn on and turn off sequences so as not to damage certain instrumentation components.
  • Instruction will include use of the IonWizzard software, as well as calcium calibration and methods of background fluorescence subtraction.
  • The major maintenance issues involve replacing the arc lamp and mechanical shutters, which tend to fail.
  • New users should schedule a training session of 2 hours. Please book your training 2 weeks in advance.

Please use the Cores Equipment Scheduler (CES) for scheduling, pricing and appointment information. For new users click here.

Help us help you.

Grants: The Cellular Imaging Core operates at a loss and is subsidized by the Department of Medicine. What does not get included in the balance sheets are the indirect costs generated from grants obtained with the help of data from our core. You can help us continue to serve you by letting us know when you submit a proposal and/or are awarded a grant which contains data obtained from the use of our Core.

Acknowledgments: We would greatly appreciate it if authors would acknowledge the Cellular Imaging Core in their publications containing data obtained with the equipment and/or assistance of Core personnel.

Contact

Michael T. Kirber, PhD
Director of the Cellular Imaging Core (CIC)
Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
Evans Biomedical Research Center – X Building
650 Albany Street
Boston MA 02118
(617) 638-7153 | mkirber@bu.edu

Location

CIC Laboratory
Evans Biomedical Research Center – X Building
650 Albany Street, Basement Room 15
Boston, MA 02118

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