Our primary instrument combines optical trapping and single molecule fluorescence. The design largely parallels an instrument developed in the Block lab for combined optical trapping and single molecule fluorescence. The instrument features a high degree of automation including computer control over the sample position, using a piezo stage, trap position, using acusto-optic deflectors and control over beam paths using automated flipper mirrors and shutters. The instrument is separated into a box for the optical trapping components and a box for the single molecule fluorescence. The instrument is capable of a broad range of experiments.
The instrument is located in a quiet basement microscopy room that can be completely darkened and has good temperature control. The design details for this instrument will be published soon!
A second trapping microscope, located on the second floor lab adjacent to our wet-lab space, is used for assay development and fluorescence imaging. A small frame argon ion laser is used as the fluorescence excitation source. We incorporate objective side TIR using a Nikon 1.40NA objective. The instrument also features a double trap geometry.
A third trapping microscope is being developed for high force optical trapping. This project is in collaboration with Professor Subra Suresh of the Materials Science and Engineering department. The instrument features a double trap configuration and a 10W infrared laser. The instrument will have a separate position sensing sub-system and fluorescence capability.
A forth instrument is being developed for incorporating multiple beams, high stability and automation. This instrument is located in a second basement microscopy room. The temperature control and acoustics of the room are ideal for optical trapping measurements.
The design for this instrument is based on an advanced version of our undergraduate teaching microscopes. See the teaching link for details on the production effort for undergraduate teaching instruments.
