Digital Scanner Optimized for Visible and Fluorescence Microscopy Applications

A new microscope scanner accessory designed to simplify digital pathology studies was introduced at a recent cancer research conference.

Leica Biosystems (Nussloch, Germany) introduced the Aperio VERSA, a combination digital pathology research scanner for brightfield, fluorescence, and FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization) imaging, at the April 2015 American Association for Cancer Research annual meeting in Philadelphia (PA, USA).

The manufacturer described the Aperio VERSA, which is based on the Leica DM600 B microscope, as combining an unsurpassed optical path with precision stage registration, ensuring accurate, high resolution images for the most sophisticated multiplexing studies. Automatic switching between dedicated brightfield and fluorescent cameras ensures consistent, crisp images. The wide range of objective lenses from 1.25x to 63x, with motorized nose piece for automatic changing, enables users to readily scan slides at their ideal resolution. Furthermore, the automated oiler and oil-immersion lenses for 40x and 63x facilitates capture of the high resolution scans in batch and unattended modes.

Once scanned, the Aperio VERSA images are integrated into a comprehensive range of image analysis solutions. The system can be optimized for local, workstation-based, single user analysis, or enterprise-level, multi-user quantification. With a broad portfolio for the detection and quantification of cellular, subcellular and molecular markers in both brightfield and fluorescence, algorithms are easily tuned, so they can be tailored for specific research requirements.

“The Aperio VERSA is a breakthrough for researchers searching for an affordable solution for their diverse imaging needs,” said Puneet Sarin, vice president and general manager of Leica Biosystems’ pathology imaging business. “This combined introduction of solutions, from advanced staining, to imaging and computerized image analysis, demonstrates our commitment to provide cutting-edge technology to drive new breakthroughs in biomarker discovery. We see the Aperio VERSA and research software as valuable tools for core laboratories, bringing increased efficiency and quality to research.”

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