COMPASS

Biologists are increasingly transitioning towards more complex assays that require volumetric imaging with high spatiotemporal resolution. Whether it is a developing embryo, the formation of a cell-cell immunological synapse, breast cancer organoids migrating through a 3D collagen matrix, or cytoskeletal rearrangements in a polarized epithelial monolayer, these biological processes can only be understood when non-invasively and quantitatively evaluated in their entirety through time.

Project Philosophy

• Simple to assemble, high-performance, light-sheet microscopes.

• Highly optimized operation with navigate software.

• Simplified optomechanical design for ease of use and maintenance.

• Streamlined optoelectronics and control for robust and reliable operation.

Note

This project is under active development.

Warning

Please be advised that while the Dean Lab has implemented several safeguards, there are inherent risks associated with the use of such mechanical and optical systems. Despite these precautions, the complexity and nature of hardware can lead to unpredictable outcomes. Therefore, the Dean Lab and UT Southwestern expressly disclaim any responsibility for any damages, losses, or injuries that may arise from or be related to the use of COMPASS. Users should be aware of these risks and agree to utilize COMPASS at their own risk.

Introduction

• Why Light-Sheet Microscopy?
• Light-Sheet Microscopy Optical Principles
• NanoSPIM
• ASLM
• OPM

Design Principles

• Required Software and Packages
• Compass V1 General Design Process

Hardware Considerations

• Preparation of the Imaging Room
• Optical Table
• Computer Specifications
• Light Sources

Physical Assembly

• Physical Assembly
• Hardware
• Parts List

Imaging with the System

• Imaging Process
• Image Stack Processing

System Characterization

• System Characterization

Authors

COMPASS includes key contributions from numerous individuals, both past and present, in The Dean Lab.

Funding

navigate is supported by the UT Southwestern and University of North Carolina Center for Cell Signaling, a Biomedical Technology Development and Dissemination (BTDD) Center funded by the NIH National Institute of General Medical Science (RM1GM145399), and the Center for Metastatic Tumor Imaging program, a Cellular Cancer Biology Imaging Research (CCBIR) program funded by the NIH National Cancer Institute (U54CA268072).