NanoLive

The NanoLive 3D Cell Explorer CX-A is a microscopy platform designed for repeat observations over time on bacterial and eukaryotic cells. Cell–cell interactions, phenotypic responses to growth conditions or chemical signals, and organellar dynamics can be captured in multi-frame, multi-layer images.

NanoLive enables the collection of tomographic data and fluorescence signal images through red, blue, and green filters (DAPI [Excitation 392 nm / Emission 432 nm], FitC [Excitation 474 nm / Emission 515 nm], and TritC [Excitation 554 nm / Emission 595 nm]). Cells and other dynamic systems can be observed for timescales ranging from seconds up to weeks-long experiments. Two imaging modes are available: 4 × 35 mm well dishes or a 60-well format, which are imaged with a rotational arm to collect 3D refractive index distributions within a cell and at resolutions of less than 200 nm.

The Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory (EMSL) offers access to several live cell imaging platforms, from high-resolution small volume (lattice light sheet) to larger volume, and high-throughput multi-sample imaging for simultaneous data capture from multiple conditions or replicates. While tomography data is label-free, the fluorescence capability makes the NanoLive compatible with activity-based probes, stains, or fluorescently tagged proteins. Live imaging is ideal for capturing within-population heterogeneity of expression or response.

Research application

Supporting the Cell Signaling and Communications Integrated Research Platform, the NanoLive enables observations of complex cellular phenotypes over time, in pure or mixed cultures, and multiple volume formats. Imaging is compatible with fluorescent probes or stains to query molecular interactions or track subcellular structures.

Supporting the Biomolecular Pathways Integrated Research Platform, the NanoLive provides targeted information about protein function and localization in cells, with co-collection of fluorescence and tomography data.

Supporting the Rhizosphere Function Integrated Research Platform, the NanoLive allows real-time observation of plant tissues interacting with additional rhizosphere organisms.

Tips for success

Imaging of fungal, plant, and bacterial cells is supported by cell adherence and proximity to the bottom of the well dish or plate with a limited Z-plane. Large differences in height are a challenge to calibrate for the angle of tomography. Pre-cultivation of cells or tissues on site at EMSL is recommended for live cell imaging.