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Inexpensive techniques for measuring [Ca2+]i changes using a photomultiplier tube
K R Robinson1, T J Keating, R J Cork
1Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907.
Methods in Cell Biology
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Photomultiplier tubes offer highly sensitive light detection at a lower cost than other detectors. With accessible components and electronics, researchers can build sensitive fluorescence measurement systems affordably.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Optical Engineering
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Photomultiplier tubes (PMTs) are established as sensitive light detection instruments.
- Existing PMT systems can be prohibitively expensive for some research applications.
- Advances in electronics have enabled cost and size reductions in detection instrumentation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a cost-effective system for sensitive light detection.
- To demonstrate the feasibility of assembling sensitive fluorescence measurement systems on a budget.
- To highlight the use of photomultiplier tubes for single-cell fluorescence applications.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing photomultiplier tubes as the primary light detection component.
- Integrating advances in associated electronics for reduced cost and size.
- Leveraging primary supplier components and machine shop access for system assembly.
- Focusing on a specific, tested system design for practical implementation.
Main Results:
- Photomultiplier tubes provide high sensitivity for light detection.
- Assembled systems are significantly more affordable than comparable detectors.
- The described system is sensitive enough for single-cell fluorescence measurements.
- Cost-effective systems can be assembled with readily available components.
Conclusions:
- Researchers can build highly sensitive fluorescence detection systems affordably.
- Photomultiplier tube technology, combined with modern electronics, offers a cost-effective solution for sensitive measurements.
- Accessibility of components and a willingness to assemble systems are key to low-cost, high-sensitivity detection.