Automated Perfusion System for Calcium Imaging

Control solution exchange in real-time calcium imaging experiments

Real-time monitoring

Track immediate cellular responses to calcium changes

Sequential compound delivery

Introduce reagents in a controlled sequence

Minimal sample disturbance

Maintain cell viability with gentle handling

How our solution enhances calcium imaging

In live-cell calcium imaging experiments, timing is crucial when introducing different solutions to observe intracellular calcium flux. Manual switching introduces inconsistencies that can distort results and compromise data accuracy [1].

Our microfluidic-based automated perfusion system eliminates this problem by delivering precisely controlled calcium influx and efflux cycles.

schematics calcium imaging

Researchers can study real-time calcium signaling in immune cells, neurons, and cardiac tissues with improved accuracy [2]. The system is also ideal for high-throughput screenings of calcium channel blockers and other drugs, facilitating drug discovery and pharmacological research [3].

In addition, it maintains controlled microenvironments for long-term imaging experiments, ensuring optimal cell viability. By eliminating timing discrepancies, this system enhances reproducibility across experiments, leading to more consistent and reliable data [4].

This system also prevents sample contamination and minimizes reagent waste, making it a cost-effective and high-precision solution for laboratories working on calcium imaging [5].

calcium imaging system
References
  1. Zhang, Y., et al. (2023). A Programmable Microfluidic Platform to Monitor Calcium Dynamics in Microglia during Inflammation.
  2. Taylor, A. M., et al. (2005). A microfluidic culture platform for CNS axonal injury, regeneration and transport. 
  3. Van der Linden, A., et al. (2006). High-throughput screening for N-type calcium channel blockers using a scintillation proximity assay.
  4. Whitesides, G. M. (2006). The origins and the future of microfluidics.
  5. Sigma-Aldrich. (n.d.). Live Cell Imaging Analysis.

Other applications

Our automated perfusion system is not limited to calcium imaging- it can also be used in:

  • Electrophysiology studies for ion channel research 
  • Neuroscience experiments requiring controlled neurotransmitter applications
  • Cardiovascular research for studying calcium-driven cardiac contractions
  • T-cell activation and immune response studies in microfluidic environments
  • And many more!
Calcium imaging in microfluidic systems: This figure illustrates a microfluidic platform designed for high-throughput calcium imaging of neuronal activity. Such systems enable precise environmental control and real-time observation of intracellular calcium dynamics, which are crucial for understanding neural responses. The integration of microfluidics with advanced imaging techniques exemplifies the growing potential of lab-on-a-chip platforms in neuroscience research.
References

Image :

Ma, Y., Li, J., Zhu, J. et al. A high-throughput microfluidic platform for calcium imaging of 3D neuronal cultures. Microsystems & Nanoengineering 10, 33 (2024).

Perfusion pump technical specifications for Calcium imaging

Pressure control
Pressure range -400 to 600 mbar
Pressure stability 0.2 mbar
Air flow rate 0.1L/min at atmospheric pressure Possibility to work with higher air flow rates by reducing the pressure range
Flow control
Microfluidic flow sensor Monitoring and feedback loop flow control available
Flow rates From 0.1 µL/min to 5 mL/min

Stage top Incubator specifications for Calcium imaging

Characteristics Specifications
Dimensions (mm) 30.5 x 130 x 168 (h x w x l)
Base K- Frame 3.5 x 110 x 160 (h x w x l)
Dimensions of internal usable space 25 x 89 x 130 (h x w x l)
Dimensions of the bottom glass (ITO glass) 1) 72 x 110 with a thickness of 1.1 mm
2) 50 x 25 with a thickness of 0.6mm
3) 50 x 22 with a thickness of 0.12 mm
Temperature range Room Temperature to 70 °C
Temperature accuracy ± 0,5 °C
calcium imaging set

Frequently asked questions

Can the solution exchange timing be adjusted?

Yes, the system allows full customization of perfusion timing to match your experimental protocol.

The stage top incubator fits a k-frame microscope.

Absolutely. The system is ideal for high-throughput screening of calcium-modulating compounds. 

This pack is in beta testing phase. So, although the instruments are not fully industrialized, we can provide extensive support as part of our beta testing program. Get in touch to see if you are eligible.

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Funding and Support

This project has received funding from the European Union under HORIZON-EIC-2022-PATHFINDEROPEN-01-01, grant agreement No. 101099719 (THOR).

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