Specifications.pdf

Specifications (Salient/Generic Characteristics or Compatibility Requirements)

This purchase request is for a set of equipment to make a functional microinjection workstation that is compatible with existing devices. The workstation will allow researchers to inject genetic material into insect eggs, nymphs, and adults.

Because of the small size of the insects and tiny volume of injected material the entire operation will be on the microscopic scale. The new equipment will delicately control movement of the insect/egg and the needle for insertion.

The facility has previously purchased a three-axis non-motorized stage that was not functional with the system. To avoid repeating that mistake, the researchers have worked with the Olympus representatives to do on-site demonstrations and assessments of what equipment will be needed to be fully compatible with our already purchased instruments. The listed desired equipment has been tested to properly complete the microinjection workstation with full functionality.

The workstation will need a motorized stage that can be manipulated in all three axes. This will be where the insect or egg will be anesthetized and can then be deployed towards the microneedle. The stage will be directed by a manual controller unit which can be switched to also operate a mechanical manipulator that can move the needle if desired. The whole setup will be rigidly attached to a metal “breadboard” with adaptors and clamps to minimize vibrations and stray movements of the equipment.

Existing equipment:

1. Olympus SZX10 stereo microscope with 1X & 2X objective lenses. Scope mounted on heavy, extendable base to allow for good working space under lenses. (USDA-ARS property tag PP0000115198)

2. Eppendorf FemtoJet 4i microinjector to control volume of injected material.

3. Narishige microneedle stand (Model 2621) to hold needle stationary and at correct angle for insertion.

Existing microscope, microinjector and needle stand

Desired equipment:

The motorized stage and second manipulator should be capable of 25 mm (1”) travel in all directions with minimum sub-micron resolution. Movement should be possible in three independent axes (X, Y, and Z) with the prospect of a programable virtual fourth axis. There needs to be speed control for quick homing as well as low speed for work under high magnification. The user-friendly controller should be capable of running the two manipulators without a complicated switching mechanism. Ideally, only one hand should be required to operate the controller. All the above should be mountable to a firm surface to avoid drift.

All power requirements should be 110 V.

specific

1. 1 ea - Sutter Instruments # 3DMS-100: TRIO MPC-100 controller, 3-axis motorized stage for microscope

***PLEASE INCLUDE 3DMS-BLANK STAGE BRACKET AS INCLUDED CHOICE***

2. 1 ea - Sutter Instruments # FGMP285MR: Right Hand MP-285 Manipulator-Mechanical

3. 2 ea - Sutter Instruments # FG-285210: Mounting adapter plate for MP-285 micromanipulator w/ mounting screws

4. 1 ea - Sutter Instruments # BR-AW: Rod holding clamp for XenoWorks injectors (rod OD 2-4mm)

5. 1 ea - Newport Corporation # SA2 -12: SA2 Series Solid Aluminum Plate, 12 in. x 24 in., 1/4-20 holes on 1 in. grid

6. 1 ea -Newport Corporation # SA2 -HNDL: Optical Breadboard Handles, 2 Piece Set, SA2 Series

Images of stage controller, right-hand manipulator, and mounting aluminum plate

Planned location of microinjection workstation. Motorized stage will go under scope head. Needle will be attached to manipulator on right side with controller nearby.