TWINKLE: An open-source two-photon microscope for teaching and research

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biophysics
• Optical Engineering

Background:

• Two-photon microscopy is crucial for neuroscience research but often involves complex, integrated commercial or homemade systems.
• The complexity of existing systems hinders customization, troubleshooting, and user training on fundamental principles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce "Twinkle," an open-source, high-performance two-photon microscope.
• To provide an accessible and easy-to-set-up instrument for both neuroscience education and research.
• To demonstrate the utility of open scientific instrumentation.

Main Methods:

• Designed and built a fully open two-photon microscope system named "Twinkle."
• Integrated a large field of view (>1 mm) using a modern objective with a 3 mm working distance and 2-inch optics.
• Utilized GaAsP photomultiplier tubes to optimize fluorescence signal detection.

Main Results:

• The "Twinkle" microscope demonstrated high performance and ease of setup.
• The system was successfully used as a teaching tool in multiple two-week workshops.
• Scientific use cases were exemplified, showcasing the instrument's research capabilities.

Conclusions:

• "Twinkle" offers a viable, open-source alternative to complex commercial two-photon microscopes.
• The system effectively bridges the gap between education and research in neuroscience.
• This work contributes to the growing field of open scientific instrumentation, promoting accessibility and customization.