Big Science in Small Animals: The SM12 Fluorescence Stereo Microscope and Model Organism Research
Big Science in Small Animals: The SM12 Fluorescence Stereo Microscope and Model Organism Research
Nematodes, zebrafish, fruit flies, and mice—these "small animals" are among the most important subjects of modern life science research, underpinning countless Nobel-caliber discoveries and earning the title of the life sciences' "unsung heroes."
Model organism research depends on "piercing vision": nematode studies require observing living nematodes just 1 millimeter long, screening fluorescence-labeled individuals, and picking and transferring them; zebrafish studies require fluorescence observation of transparent embryos to track organ development and blood vessel formation. Such live observations demand a long working distance, high zoom power, and sensitive fluorescence imaging—and this is exactly what the Motic SM12 fluorescence stereo microscope was made for.
The SM12 uses a parallel optical system and apochromatic objectives, with 12-step continuous zoom covering the macro to micro range. Its dual-path fluorescence module and long-life LED light source deliver live fluorescence observation with low phototoxicity and a high signal-to-noise ratio. 360-degree rotational viewing and EDF depth-of-field extension let researchers clearly see minute structures from any angle, and the accompanying software supports image stitching, automatic counting, and multi-channel fluorescence compositing, providing a complete solution for developmental tracking and data statistics.
China has produced a steady stream of talent in model organism research, and the Model Animal Research Center of Nanjing University is one of its major hubs. Established in 2001 under the National Resource Center for Mutant Mice project, it has well-developed research systems for multiple species—including mice, fruit flies, and zebrafish—and is known in the field as a "Whampoa Military Academy," having trained a large number of model organism researchers for China. From nematode culture dishes to zebrafish tanks, the SM12 is accompanying researchers as they uncover big science in tiny lives.