The Han Lab's advanced imaging system consists of a custom-built spinning disk confocal/TIRF microscope located in the H-STEM 357A at Michigan Technological University. This comprehensive platform has been upgraded with state-of-the-art components through BioVision Technologies to enhance its capabilities for mechanobiology research. The system now features a laser merge module with four precisely controlled wavelengths (405 nm at 100 mW, 488 nm at 100 mW, 561 nm at 50 mW, and 639 nm at 160 mW) with motorized switching between dual fiber outputs and integrated TTL hardware control. A high-performance Prime BSI sCMOS camera provides exceptional sensitivity with 2048 x 2048 pixel resolution, 95% quantum efficiency, and air cooling to -20°C for low-noise imaging. The optical path has been enhanced with a complete set of multi-LED, confocal, and TIRF emission filters. System automation has been improved through the addition of a Z-axis focus stepper motor for precise optical sectioning. Fluorescence illumination capabilities have been expanded with a 2-meter liquid light guide and replacement bulb for uniform sample excitation. These new components complement the existing Yokogawa CSU-X1 spinning disk confocal head with Borealis modification and Nikon optical framework.The microscope maintains its integrated TIRF imaging arm and full environmental control through an Okolab stage-top incubation system with precise temperature and CO2 regulation. A custom flow chamber system remains available for specialized experiments requiring controlled shear flow conditions. The entire system operates under MicroManager software. This upgraded imaging platform supports diverse research applications including real-time visualization of mechanosensitive protein dynamics, immune cell interactions, and cellular responses to mechanical stimuli. The combination of enhanced laser control, improved camera sensitivity, and automated focusing capabilities makes this system particularly valuable for studying stiffness sensing and force transmission at subcellular resolution.Â
The Han lab has the optical tweezers housed in the same room with the SD confocal microscope. It is Thorlabs' OTKB(/M) system, a complete optical trapping setup designed for biological research. This laser-based system utilizes an inverted microscope for compatibility with typical cell samples. The system has a camera for video recording and can be adapted for fluorescence and other microscopy techniques.Â