Abstract

A sophisticated laser microbeam system has been combined with an image processing computer system (Gould-De Anza IP5500) to study numerous problems in cell biology and genetics. The lasers are two Nd:YAG lasers with output in the picosecond (25–100-psec) and nanosecond domains (10 nsec), and wavelengths at 1.06 μm, 532, 355, and 266 nm. In addition, a dye laser is pumped with the nanosecond 532- and 355-nm YAG wavelengths to yield a tunable spectrum of 217–800 nm. Cellular systems are observed through a Zeiss Axiomat microscope that focuses the laser beam to spot diameters of <1 μm. The microscope images are directed to either a Newvicon or low-light intensified TV camera and subsequently directed to the computer system for real time digitization, manipulation, and redisplay. Cellular systems studied by this approach are: cell migration; function of the mitotic apparatus; myocardial cell contractility; and gene expression.

© 1984 Optical Society of America