Investigate brain circuits in unprecedented detail with the Scientifica HoloStim-3D

Investigate brain circuits in unprecedented detail with the Scientifica HoloStim-3D


Interrogate larger neural networks in higher resolution than ever before with the world’s highest performing multiphoton all-optical solution, the HoloStim-3D.

A compact module that seamlessly integrates with the HyperScope, an award-winning multiphoton imaging system, the HoloStim-3D provides a fully integrated Spatial Light Modulator (SLM) based photostimulation solution. By shaping laser beams to generate defined light patterns, with individual points projected onto specific cells or cell structures in a biological sample, holographic photostimulation enables the active interrogation of large 3D networks.

“Spatial light modulation in multiphoton microscopy has unleashed new, unprecedented methods of photostimulation capabilities in biological tissue. The Holostim-3D combines the best of spatial light modulation and multiphoton technology, while allowing our customers to drive rapid and high-throughput photostimulation using the latest optogenetics tools,” Dr. Kelly Sakaki, Systems Engineer at Scientifica.

By simultaneously imaging and photostimulating hundreds of individual cells in 3D, this all-optical solution allows you to clearly identify the role of neural subtypes in brain circuits and behaviour. You can interrogate cells and subcellular structures in deep brain tissue, generating high quality results.

Cell bodies and subcellular structures can be specifically targeted less off-target activation than other systems on the market, thanks to the industry-leading resolution of the HoloStim-3D. Larger neuronal networks can be interrogated due to the large field-of-view facilitating targeting of cells in larger brain regions.

“The Scientifica HoloStim-3D enables holographic photostimulation over a large field of view combined with substantial power throughput, enabling precise targeting of user-selected groups of cells across large areas. The optical design of the HyperScope enables excellent spatial resolution throughout both the photostimulation and high-speed imaging fields of view,” explained Drs. Adam Packer and Robert Lees, academic collaborators from the University of Oxford.

“The module was easy to use with critical optical elements, such as the half-wave plate for polarisation control and zero order block, integrated in easily accessible places within the module. Also, the ability to combine photostimulation and imaging of any wavelength allows for versatility and extensibility as opsin and indicator technology develops yet further over the coming years. Having used this photostimulation system personally in my laboratory, I found it to be an outstanding addition to our arsenal of tools for interrogating neural circuits.”

The clever design of the HyperScope and HoloStim-3D allows different imaging and stimulation wavelengths to freely combined, so you can excite or image target cells expressing different opsins. Closely mimic neuronal firing by fast-switching stimulation patterns.

Full integration of the HoloStim-3D with globally recognised ScanImage software makes adopting this technology easier than ever-before, so experiments can start straight away.

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