The MetaMorphosis continues! MetaMorph 7.6 is the next generation of world-class image acquisition and analysis software from Molecular Devices. Combining the most flexible and powerful tools for image acquisition, processing, and analysis, MetaMorph imaging systems offer a complete solution for even the most demanding live-cell imaging needs. MetaMorph 7.6 now has available two new applications; 3D Track Objects and the Micronuclei Application Module. Also, MetaMorph 7.6 now supports hardware with OptiGrid SIM and automated slide handling plus much more. There is also added new functionality to multidimensional acquisition and analysis.

Key Features

New Features

MetaMorph software introduces Stack AutoAlign Application Module

Compensate for stage shift, vibration or similar small whole field movement that can occur during a time-lapse. AutoAlign can be used on a stack of images or on a Multidimensional Data set. The user selects which wavelength to perform the alignment on and MetaMorph software will apply the same translation to all the other wavelengths. For multi-Z data sets, the alignment is performed on the best focus image and each plane will be shifted by that amount. For data sets that contain multiple stage positions, the user will have the option of applying the shift to all stage positions based on a selected position. For rotational data sets, a single object can be aligned and adjusted for both the rotation and any slight translational motion over time.

MetaMorph software now supports the PL-200 automated slide loading system from Prior Scientific.

The PL-200 is now fully controlled using MetaMorph® software via a USB connection, which ensures simple system integration. The award winning Prior Scientific PL-200 is an innovative high speed automated slide loading system that is ideal for a variety of high throughput microscopy applications. Designed to be compatible with the widest range of microscopes, the PL-200 utilizes a space saving rotating arm design combined with a multiple sensory based gripper system to interface with Prior's ProScan II series of motorized stages to ensure a safe and reliable high speed slide transfer routine. System stability is built in by the presence of a rigid, common baseplate for both the slide loader and the microscope which minimizes vibration and provides a solid connection between slide loader and microscope. The PL-200 has an impressive 200 slide capacity accommodated in four removable slide racks that house 50 slides each. Sensors on the PL-200 monitor the presence of the slide racks so the system can intelligently respond when racks are removed and replaced. Upon detection of a newly installed slide rack, the PL-200 utilizes an advanced slide detection system to automatically scan and identify the quantity of slides in the rack and its respective location within the rack. To ensure that any data generated using the PL-200 system is correctly associated with the correct slide reference details, and consequently to fulfill the requirements of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), an optional barcode reader can be calibrated to read 1D or 2D barcodes.

MetaMorph Software now supports the OptiGrid® from Qioptiq

The OptiGrid is now fully controlled using MetaMorph software via a USB connection, which ensures simple system integration. Utilizing the light emitted from an existing stabilized illumination source, the OptiGrid uses a one-dimensional optical grid mounted on a piezo-electronically driven actuator to project a line pattern onto the specimen. The grid is then moved perpendicularly to the grid lines, in 1/3 steps of its period length so that three grid movements result in one optical section.

The structured illumination process returns a strong signal wherever focus is sharp and a weak signal where focus is soft. Furthermore, a patented algorithm is used to combine these strong signals from the grid images so that each optical section contains data that is exactly within the focal plane. A series of optical sections taken through a sample (z-stack) can then be combined to create a haze-free ultra-sharp composite image. Image stacks can also be used to produce 3D reconstructions using post processing software.

The OptiGrid slider is inserted into the field diaphragm slot of a standard illuminator on upright or inverted microscopes. This enables it to be used with any of the wavelengths available from the illumination system from UV to IR and also to be easily removed for standard microscope functions. Furthermore, it provides users with excellent imaging throughput and programmable experiment repeatability for parallel multiple-specimen imaging.

The OptiGrid is an excellent and cost efficient system for expanding the imaging capabilities of new or existing microscopes without taking up valuable laboratory space. Offering confocal-like image quality, the OptiGrid integrates quickly and easily with many microscopes.

MetaMorph Software now supports Slide Handler from Ludl Electronic Products

Simplicity, flexibility, affordability, reliability: these are the design criteria for the LEP slide handler system. Along with MetaMorph, the resulting system goes beyond these criteria by offering an easily expandable system that provides a complete solution for microscope automation.

The simplicity of the slide transfer mechanism provides efficient, reliable slide loading. A single arm functions to pull the slide from the cassette to the stage and then return it with an opposite pushing motion. Once the slide is transferred to the stage it is located with a unique fixturing device for repeatable positioning and slide reloading in all axes. As the precision XY stage scans the slide, the transfer mechanism is completely clear of any interference with normal microscope function.

Flexibility is guaranteed by the random access capability. Cassettes are configurable as input only, output only or input/output depending upon your specific requirements. This makes the system ideally suited for high volume screening, analysis

Applications
In the progressive field of imaging, system versatility is of foremost importance. MetaMorph offers tailored solutions for a full range of applications: