Confocal GaAsP Detector with Variable Acquisition Wavelength

The purpose of this order is to upgrade the detector on a confocal microscope that will greatly increase the sensitivity of detection and will allow the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) to collect images within a customizable wavelength range.The light detecting technology used by the current detector in our confocal microscope is the "Multi-Alkali" type which has a much lower light sensitivity (2x to 5x depending on wavelength) than the GaAsP type which is being requested. This will allow for much lower laser power to be used in acquiring images, leading to lower photo-bleaching of the sample, and enhanced detection of weak signals. In addition, this detector incorporates a tunable emission filter, allowing for better separation of signal from tissues probed with multiple labels, each emitting at closely spaced wavelengths. The benefits to our work include increased detection of faint signals, decreased damage to samples, and higher throughput due to increased ability to use multiple labels with each sample.Contact Information: Valerie Whipple, Contracting Officer, Email valerie.whipple@nih.gov - Danielle R. Brown, Contract Specialist, Phone 301 480 2385, Email danielle.brown2@nih.gov Office Address :6001 Executive BoulevardRoom 4211, MSC 9559 Bethesda MD 20892-9559 Location: National Institute on Drug Abuse Set Aside: