Multi-dimensional scanner for nano-second time scale signal detection

摘要

A device and system for measuring the multidimensional distribution of a sample tagged with a short life fluorescent label. The substance applied to a sample holder can be scanned with an optical point source excitation and read back optical stage. The sample can be excited at each of a plurality of points with a fast, e.g., nanosecond pulse of light. The resulting fluorescence can be detected after the excitation is extinguished. A detection gate window can be optimized to maximize the fluorescence signal detected for a predetermined amount of time.

主权项

1. A device for mapping a fluorescence signal from a sample comprising:
a light source directed at the sample containing a fluorophore which generates the fluorescence signal; a pulse generator to produce a light source pulse; an active detector with a data acquisition rate between:
a lower limit of approximately 104 pulses per second (pps); andan upper limit of approximately 107 pps, where the active detector has an image acquisition pixel resolution between:a lower limit of approximately 10−6 m×10−6 m; andan upper limit of approximately 10−4 m×10−4 m; a timing circuit to generate a delay between:
a lower limit of approximately 10−12 s; andan upper limit of approximately 10−10 s; a control circuit to generate a duration; a high speed switch controlled by one or both the delay and the duration to selectively direct the fluorescence signal to the active detector, where the fluorescence signal is detected by the active detector after the delay and during the duration; and a stepping motor to move the sample position a separation in one or more directions and map the fluorescence signal detected from the sample at different positions.