An inexpensive, automated instrument for laser irradiation of cultured cells

Laser irradiation of cultured cells is a valuable technique for elucidating the mechanisms of low-level laser therapy, but is often tedious because of the need to manually change the position of the laser beam. Consequently, we developed a computer-based system that automatically moves a cell culture plate over a laser beam and times the exposure.

There are presently no commercial devices available for automated laser irradiation of cultured cells. Many investigators thus manually aim and time laser exposure, a time-consuming task that is prone to errors.

We used outdated, surplus computer components to construct a system for automated laser exposure of cultured cells. This design strategy makes the system quite inexpensive.

Construction and operation of the system is described and an example of its use is presented. Alternate means of accomplishing automated laser irradiation are also presented.

Inexpensive and relatively simple devices can be constructed for automated laser irradiation of cultured cells. These devices can eliminate the tedium and errors of manual laser exposure.