Wide horizons for optical trapping: simultaneous optical manipulation and confocal imaging of live T cells at low magnification

Abstract

We report a system for optical tra pping, manipulation an d imaging of live cells in close to real-time with a wide field of view. A fs-pulsed Ti:Sapphire source was used to trap cells whilst an Ar + laser was used for confocal imaging. A single 10x/0.4NA lens and a dual scanning system enabled independent trapping, imaging and movement of cells over a field of view >1 mm 2 . We will present movi es of contr olled T cell and dendritic cel I movement an d interaction. This enable s the funct ional study of cell-signa Iling proce sses that ar e fundamental to understanding the behaviour of the immune system and beyond.