COMPASS

Cost-Effective, Open-Source, Light-Sheet Microscopy Solutions for for Sub-Cellular Imaging.

COMPASS aims to democratize high-resolution light-sheet fluorescence microscopy. By combining modular optomechanics, cutting-edge lens simulations, and intelligent software, COMPASS enables the rapid assembly of light-sheet fluorescence microscopes that deliver ~235 nm lateral and ~465 nm axial resolution in a user-friendly package.

Motivation

Cellular behavior is orchestrated by diverse signaling mechanisms that often hinge on molecular events precisely organized in space and time. These events include rapid, localized protein interactions that drive processes such as cell division, migration, and differentiation. COMPASS addresses the need for high-resolution live-cell imaging, empowering researchers to:

• Visualize spatially regulated processes.
• Collect quantitative 3D time-lapse data.
• Bridge molecular probe design and advanced computational image analysis.

Goal

The overarching goal is to provide a modular, cost-effective 3D light-sheet microscope that:

• Can be assembled with minimal prior optics expertise.
• Consistently achieves ~235 nm lateral and ~465 nm axial resolution.
• Seamlessly integrates with our user-friendly, intelligent imaging software navigate.
• Streamlines data acquisition, drastically reducing barriers to cutting-edge microscopy.

Key Features

1. High-Resolution Optics

   • Optical designs extensively simulated in Ansys Zemax OpticStudio to ensure robust performance across the visible spectrum.
   • Thorough tolerance analysis to maintain alignment and resolution in non-specialist environments.

2. Rugged Mechanical Design

   • Computer aided design (CAD) with Autodesk Inventor for stress testing and mechanical reliability.
   • Xometry manufacturing ensures precision component fabrication.
   • Dowel pins and Thorlabs Polaris mounts allow reproducible alignment of optical elements.

3. Easy-to-Source Components

   • Optics primarily sourced from Thorlabs, with Polaris mounts for stable positioning.
   • Motion control solutions (X, Y, Z, Focus, Sample Scanning) from Applied Scientific Instrumentation.
   • Open-hardware ethos with minimal custom parts to reduce cost and wait times.
   • Detailed step-by-step assembly instructions,

4. Intuitive Control Software

   • Built to interface seamlessly with navigate.
   • Automated routines for calibration, 3D volume acquisition, and intelligent imaging.

Getting Started

• Review the Documentation
• Procure Hardware
• Download and Install navigate
• Assemble Hardware
• Optimize Alignment
• Validate Performance

Authors

• John Haug, Ph.D.
• Kevin M. Dean, Ph.D.

Funding

• UTSW-UNC Center for Cell Signaling Analysis NIH NIGMS RM1GM145399
• Center for Metastatic Tumor Imaging NIH NCI U54CA268072