The Bruker CellHesion 300 is an atomic force microscope for single-cell force spectroscopy and quantitative measurements of cellular mechanics, adhesion, and molecular interactions. The system combines force measurements with high-resolution optical imaging for label-free characterization of living cells and tissue samples in near-physiological conditions.

Technical Specifications

AFM System

• Force measurements: Single-molecule resolution with exchangeable sensor holders
• Vertical range: 100µm + optional 15µm high-precision piezo
• Laser wavelength: 880 nm (infrared) for zero crosstalk with fluorescence
• Microrheology: Frequencies from 0.5-500 Hz for viscoelastic measurements
• Force spectroscopy: Customizable contact force, pulling range, contact time, and movement speed

Sample Handling

• Large-scale Z-motors for samples with extended topography range
• SmartMapping feature for user-defined 2D shaped force maps
• Optical tiling for multiple regions of interest
• Motorized stage for automated positioning
• Compatible with standard 35 x 10 mm petri dishes

Microscope Platform

• System: Zeiss Axio Observer 5 inverted microscope
• Objectives: 5x, 10x, 20x, and 40x magnifications
• Illumination: Transmitted light with condenser optics, Colibri 5 RGB-UV for fluorescence imaging
• Filter sets for GFP/Cy2 (Zeiss filter set 38 HE), RFP/Cy3 (Zeiss filter set 43 HE) , Cy5 (Zeiss filter set 50
• Detection: High-sensitivity pco.panda 4.2 sCMOS camera (2048×2048 pixels)

Data Acquisition and Analysis

Acquisition is performed with Linux-based control software featuring real-time data processing and comprehensive analysis tools. Force curve analysis includes WLC, FJC, JKR, and DMT fitting routines. The software provides 3D rendering, automated batch processing, and advanced image processing capabilities.

New users

Please contact Maya Holdengreber, tel. 073-378-1107, to coordinate a meeting.