From OpenSPIM to FlowSPIM: Enhancing the versatility of a light sheet microscope through an iterative design process

Abstract

Light sheet microscopy is ideal for the 3D imaging of large biological specimens, yet systematic documentation on adapting microscope designs to diverse experimental requirements remains limited. We present the iterative process used to design and build a modular light-sheet microscope and adapt it to different sample types and experimental conditions. Starting from a stripped-down OpenSPIM platform, we gradually make our microscope more versatile by implementing new hardware, such as additional laser channels and optical filters, and new protocols for sample handling. In its final iteration, FlowSPIM is a new flow-based incubation technique for 3D tissue culture.

Electronic material is available at https://osf.io/a28mn/overview?view_only=74b7ad58fe8743efb038f931ea537ffa