RQ0000010125 Epifluorescence Microscope

Description

Intended uses (priority order):
1) Real-time imaging of cellular physiology using ion-sensitive fluorophores or similar probes (e.g. fura 2 and fluo dyes with ability for acquisition of fura 2 ratiometric images ≥1Hz)
2) General epifluorescence imaging of living cell cultures using a range of fluorescent dyes to image cellular structure and function (cell viability, mitochondrial function, ROS etc). Excitation/emission capabilities should cover standard range of fluorophores (e.g. DAPI, fluorescein, rhodamine etc).
3) General transmitted light and epifluorescence imaging of fixed / stained cell cultures and slide-mounted tissue sections 
Essential requirements:
•	Research-grade inverted microscope chassis, stage, transmitted light illumination, eyepieces etc
•	Microscope should be capable of phase and differential interference contrast transmitted light methods. 
•	Objectives 10, 20, 40 and ~60 or 100x optimised for epifluorescence observation and DIC, 20 and 40x objectives optimised for UV excitation for Fura 2 (@340 & 380 nm, if different from standard epifluorescence objectives), additional 20 and 40x for phase contrast. 
•	Epifluorescence light source to provide illumination for cellular physiology studies (excitation suitable for a range of dyes including fura 2) should include software controlled shutter, or equivalent, to control illumination and synchronise to image acquisition. 
•	Epifluorescence light source for general epifluorescence imaging (2 and 3 above) if different
•	Ability to mount both epifluorescence illumination systems and switch between physiology and high-resolution epifluorescence imaging modes
•	Monochrome camera suitable for real-time imaging cellular physiology
•	Monochrome camera for high resolution general epifluorescence (if different from above)
•	Ability to mount both cameras and switch between physiology and high-resolution epifluorescence imaging modes
•	Image acquisition and analysis software suitable for running cellular physiology studies
•	Image acquisition and analysis software suitable for general epifluorescence studies. Ability to combine fluorescence images to produce composite images, ability to undertake image analysis/cytometry measurements of fluorescently labelled specimens. 
Desirable requirements:
•	Motorised control of microscope operation
•	Additional image analysis options for analysis of standard histopathology tissue sections 
Other:
•	If all capability is not possible on one microscope chassis then would consider two systems.

This requirement will be on the defence sourcing portal (DSP)

Additional information: How to apply - This notice can be found on the defence sourcing portal at this link: https://www.contracts.mod.uk/go/172903630186FEB197D9