Real-time Deformability Cytometer

AcCellerator

The AcCellerator is a high speed imaging cytometer for mechanical cell characterization through Real-Time Deformability Cytometry (RT-DC), measurements. Real-time deformability cytometry developed by ZellMechanik in Dresden, Germany, represents a cutting-edge, high-capacity method for characterizing the mechanical properties of individual cells. This innovative approach analyses the deformation of suspended cells due to controlled hydrodynamic forces as they traverse a contact-free microfluidic channel, enabling real-time analysis of over 100 cells per second.
The RT-FD is also equipped with a fluorescence module (RT-FDC), which enables the simultaneous detection of mechanical and fluorescence characteristics in individual cells. This advancement allows for the collection of fluorescence intensity data across three channels, akin to a conventional flow cytometer. The direct correlation between mechanical and fluorescence data, utilizing dyes, fluorescent proteins, or surface markers, enhances the validation of cellular mechanics as a label-free marker.
The instrument is equipped with:

  • ZM-AcCellerator extended with high-speed imaging system (CMOS camera and frame grabber), high-power LED-illumination system AcCellerator L1 (460 nm), precision syringe pump with two syringe modules, pump rack, SampleStage and SampleBox, high-performance computer.
  • ZM-ZEISS_AO3_ManToMot - Inverted microscope – ZEISS Axio Observer 3 equipped to perform “real-time deformability cytometry” using the AcCellerator. The system includes: 100 % transmission to left side port with camera mount, 40x objective, NA 0.65, air/no immersion, manual and motorized XY stage for Zeiss Axio Observer.
  • ZM Fluorescenc eModule for fluorescence intensity measurements in parallel to cell mechanical measurements. Coupled to the side port of the ZEISS Axio Observer. Including laser safety add-ons for the microscope. Up to three excitation lines and detection channels of choice.
  • ZM-HeatModule Heating enclosure to the AcCellerator with ZEISS Axio Observer. This module allows the control of temperature during measurements – between the room temperature and 37 °C.

📍 The “Real-time deformability cytometry” station is located at the Nanobioelectronics, Nanobiotechnology, and Nanomedicine Laboratories of the Department of Mathematics and Physics of the University of Salento.

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