“We had an EMCCD which we wanted to replace. Jeremy at Custom Scopes suggested the Libra 22, and we love it. We are even looking to replace another of our old EMCCDs with this one.”

– Prof Nicholas Dale, University of Warwick



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Group Research Aims

The Dale Lab studies a family of membrane proteins known as connexins, which play important roles in cellular signalling through small molecules such as ATP, L-glutamate, and L-lactate in response to changes in concentration of CO₂. Particular areas of interest include connexins expressed in myelin-forming Schwann cells, and in the neurons and glia found in the brain, with the aim of improving our understanding of how intercellular communication impacts epilepsy & neurodegenerative diseases.

To investigate the mechanisms underlying small-molecule specificity, the lab develops genetically encoded fluorescent sensors that respond selectively to individual signalling molecules. As sensor expression levels are often low, high-sensitivity sCMOS imaging is essential for accurately detecting and quantifying changes in fluorescence.

Group Website
Jeremy Graham - Custom Scopes

Custom Scopes

Custom Scopes is a UK-based microscopy consultancy, systems integrator, and supplier of advanced imaging solutions, including Tucsen cameras.

By combining open-source software such as Micro-Manager with carefully selected hardware, they deliver bespoke imaging systems tailored to the needs of researchers and industrial users across the UK and Europe.

For the Dale Lab's application, Custom Scopes recommended the Tucsen Libra 22 as the ideal large field-of-view imaging solution. Its combination of sCMOS sensitivity, high quantum efficiency, and expansive sensor format enables the detection of subtle cell membrane signals while maximising imaging throughput.

Custom Scopes Website
Diagram of a Libra 22 system used by Nick Dale lab for Neuroscience applications at University of Warwick

Equipment & Experiment

The experimental setup is designed for imaging Neuro-2A or HeLa cells that have been transfected with fluorescent-tagged connexins and genetically encoded fluorescent sensors. This allows the researchers to investigate, exploiting wavelengths across the visible spectrum, the mechanisms of connexin hemichannel gating and their selectivity for different small signalling molecules.

The Tucsen Libra 22 provides the sensitivity required for this application through its high quantum efficiency and low read noise. Operating in Sensitive Mode, its 7.52 μm pixels capture subtle fluorescence dynamics, enabling the reliable detection of small changes in signal intensity from cell lines.

The camera's large 22 mm field of view allows more data to be captured in a single acquisition without requiring a complete upgrade of the optical system. Large 14-bit datasets acquired through Micro-Manager can be seamlessly integrated into the laboratory's analysis workflow, supporting efficient and reliable data processing.

Experience with Tucsen

“Jeremy at Custom Scopes was extremely helpful throughout the process. He took the time to understand our requirements, then recommended and evaluated the Libra 22 as a replacement for one of our ageing EMCCD cameras.

The transition was straightforward, the camera was easy to integrate into our workflow, and we were able to start acquiring data with minimal effort in Micro-Manager. The large field of view has been particularly valuable, allowing us to capture more data in a single acquisition while maintaining the sensitivity we need for our experiments. We are now considering replacing another EMCCD system with a Libra 22.” – Nicholas Dale, University of Warwick

Libra 22 Tucsen Camera

Libra 22

The Libra 22 features a Sony sensor with a 22 mm field of view, allowing for high content imaging with classic sCMOS sensitivity.

  • 92% Peak QE
  • 37 fps in 14-bit
  • 1.0 e- Read Noise
  • 4 Million Pixels
  • 7.52 Micron Pixels
  • USB3.0 Interface