Microscope Gives New Momentum to Biological Research

The LSM 710 Laser Scanning Microscope from Carl Zeiss has won the 2008 Innovation Award presented by the German federal state of Thuringia. The prize conferred by the regional Ministry of Economic Affairs for new outstanding developments was presented to Carl Zeiss for the LSM 710 and to KTS Kunststoff Technik Schmölln GmbH for the CSEasy tire system at the Thuringian Innovation Day held in Erfurt on 5 November 2008. Carl Zeiss has now won the Thuringian Innovation Award for the fourth time.

With the LSM 710 Laser Scanning Microscope, Carl Zeiss is setting new standards in the examination of fluorescent specimens in the life sciences. The technical innovations implemented in the LSM 710 offer new possibilities in the research conducted with living and multi-labelled cells, which are of special significance in providing a better understanding of disease.

With enhanced image quality, improved flexibility for experiments and new optical and technical details, the system can give new stimulus to all areas of biological research. Further hallmarks of the LSM 710 are its unique precision and markedly simplified operation.

Fluorescence microscopy with the LSM 710 becomes even more efficient, easier and faster thanks to the use of numerous technological innovations in the optical and electronic design and in the software architecture. The system’s outstanding sensitivity ensures high-contrast, detailed images even of complex specimens such as thick, living tissue samples. The system’s new illumination and detection design provides absolute freedom in the selection and simultaneous imaging of up to ten fluorescence signals.

The aim of the competition is to highlight the significance of future-oriented innovations and design excellence for companies in the  manufacturing industry and for the trades, and therefore also for the economic development of Thuringia.