The mIRage-LS optical photothermal infrared (O-PTIR) microscope has a spectral range of 3600-2700 and 1800-800 cm-1 for infrared (IR) spectroscopy and a spectral range of 3900 – 200 cm-1 for Raman spectroscopy. X-Y spatial resolution for both methods is < 400 nm and the instrument is fitted with dual probe lasers (532 nm and 785 nm) to give greater flexibility in acquiring Raman data. Both IR and Raman spectra can be acquired by selecting specific locations. In addition, tissue can be spectroscopically mapped over large regions using single wavenumber mapping (fastest) or hyperspectral mapping where a full spectrum is acquired at each pixel. An automated IR polarizer allows assessment of signal as function of molecular orientation. The wide-field epi-fluorescence microscope has capacity for 7 fluorescence filters cubes and so can be readily tailored to the needs of particularly histological strategies. The instrument can be operated in “top-down” mode or in the new “bottom up” counter-propagating mode, which enables the use of high powered standard refractive optical microscope objectives and increased signal/noise and spatial resolution for both IR and Raman imaging.

The mIRage-LS is capable of imaging a wide range of biological and material samples. As with all microscopies, flat surfaces are best to maintain a consistent depth of field in the sample during imaging. Standard histological sections are ideal for tissue/cell imaging and fluorescence markers can be used to guide/correlate the IR and Raman data. Unlike traditional IR microscopy, it is possible to use fresh tissue sections that are fully hydrated (i.e. ligament/tendons that are 70% water). This method is also excellent for characterizing materials such as polymers, biopolymers, coatings, and environmental samples. Please consult O-PTIR and/or HRIF staff for detailed advice on sample preparation methods.

Objectives:

• C40X(1)
• 50X0.8(2)
• 10X(3)
• 40X GC(4)

Laser Lines:

• OPO laser 2700 to 3600 cm^-1
• QCL laser 1800-800 cm^-1

Filter Cubes:

• MCHE
• BFP
• GFP
• BF

Accessories:

• Camera/Illuminator for Fluorescence Microscopy
• Filter cube turret
• s-CMOS camera
• Lumencor SOLA light engine

Acquisition Software:

PTIR Studio software V4.5

Data Analysis Software:

• PTIR Studio software V4.5
• Image J
• RStudio/Python/GraphPad Prism
• KnowItAll software for IR spectral interpretation