What is Quartet?

​Quartet is a miniature fluorescence microscope and data collection software package optimized for neuronal calcium imaging. Thin, cylindrical, graded-refractive-index lenses(GRIN) get implanted along with our specially designed, patent-pending focus adjustable fiber-lens connector in ANY region of the brain and spinal cord. The imaging fiber bundle connects to the implanted GRIN lens to transmit the fluorescence signal from neurons to the CMOS sensor. Quartet uses FOUR optical imaging fiber bundles and comes with four such highly flexible and light weight lens connectors. Each bundle includes 18000 single fibers, each of which are 7.5micron in diameter.

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 Why Quartet?

​- Simultaneous imaging of multiple regions of both the brain the and spinal cord in freely behaving animals

- Implantation in more than one animal allows simultaneous imaging of brains of multiple animals for social studies

- Image neurons during behavioural experiments that require animal swimming

- Capability of implantation at any angle allows imaging hard to reach brain areas, such as the olfactory bulb

- Light and flexible probes allow performance of delicate memory and behaviour experiments with very minimal stress to the animal

- Specially designed light connectors allow probe-lens connection with minimal stress to the animal

- Connector design allows for simple focus adjustment that is maintained over weeks, for the duration of the experiment

- Design allows simultaneous imaging with EEG and fMRI

- Long electric cables allow easy lab space management

- Light and small microscope body allows placement of the microscope body anywhere, even hanging in mid-air(e.g. above the maze)