LUMICKS Confocal C-Trap

The multicolor confocal fluorescence imaging allows the visualization of biological processes such as protein binding kinetics on DNA. These interactions of fluorescently labeled molecules can be visualized by kymographs, a graph in which the y axis shows position and the x axis shows time. The resulting kymograph unveils the number, position, diffusion, and (un-)binding kinetics of the proteins along the DNA. The system also allows for measuring conformational changes of proteins by combining the C-Trap with FRET. With its fast 1D scanning capabilities, the confocal C-Trap is suitable for constructs such as DNA or other filaments.

Instrument Configuration

  • Max. number of traps: 4
  • Force resolution (x,y): < 0.1 pN @100 Hz
  • Bead displacement resolution using force signal: < 0.3 nm @ 100 Hz
  • Bead displacement resolution using live bright-field bead tracking: < 3 nm @ 100 Hz
  • Brightfield field of view (x,y): 115 µm x 92 µm (full ROI)
  • Brightfield camera frame rate: ~30 FPS (full ROI, depending on settings)
  • Confocal field of view (x,y): 55 µm x 40 µm (full ROI)
  • Confocal frame rate:
    • 2D scan: 0.04 fps (full ROI) to 0.3 fps (smaller, realistic ROI)
    • Line scan: 17 fps (full line in x) to 30 fps (smaller, realistic line)
  • Available excitation laser lines: 488 nm / 561 nm / 638 nm
  • Available detectors: 3 APDs
  • Detection filters: 525/40, 600/50, 680/42
  • Microfluidics unit: advanced u-Flux microfluidics with automated valves, 5 channels + 1 outlet
  • Environmental control: temperature control of condenser and objective,
    >28 °C +- 0.05 °C

Location