Ratiometric calcium imaging with LEDs can work extremely well, but, due to the relatively narrow bandwidths and spectral variations of individual LEDs, it does require attention to detail.
The FuraLED head simplifies the process by taking care of the LED selection, intensity regulation, and bespoke optics to ensure the best possible signal-to-noise for your experiments. We offer a choice of conventional Fura-2 or the red-shifted Fura-8, enabling the use of standard Plan Apo lenses, which don’t transmit light at 340nm. High and low-affinity versions of both dyes are available from AAT Bioquest, allowing the accurate recording of fast and slow calcium changes.
We understand that most researchers will also want to use visible indicators and, quite likely, their existing light source alongside the FuraLED. To simplify this, the coupling is equipped with a straight-through port to accommodate any fibre-based illuminator or additional Cairn LEDs.
Cairn have supplied Fura-2 systems for three decades now. The company was founded on a photometry system comprising of a spinning filter wheel illuminated by a xenon arc light source. More recently (last 18 years) we have been selling the Optoscan Monochromator, still illuminated with a xenon arc light source, but using a diffraction grating mounted on a galvanometer. We introduced an LED light source for Fura2 five years ago, but only with 360nm isosbestic ratioing (due to limitations in LED availability). We are delighted to now offer full 340nm / 380nm ratiometric Fura-2 imaging with integrated excitation filters. Similarly, the LED configuration for fura-8 is also available.
Cairns’s design ethos is based on compatibility across a wide range of manufacturers. In the rare case where we do not have a compatible part, we have a custom design team available to provide a solution.
We provide a comprehensive 12-month warranty on all our products.
We aim for a delivery time of 2-4 weeks. However, the specific delivery time will be confirmed at the point of order.
We offer full training and support across our entire product range.
Yes, we have full custom design capabilities and a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers available to provide a solution that meets your needs.
Our CellCams are supported in Micro-Manager and we have a full SDK available.
