The measurement of internal levels of ions in nerve cells has provided a rich array of information on signal transduction during processes such as learning and memory and synaptic transmission. However, the physiologist has been significantly limited by an inability to make such measurements in an appropriate time frame. For example, the elevation of calcium occurring during a single action potential arises on a sub-millisecond time scale yet most measurements are made in the sub-second time period. This disconnect between the desired and actual timing of measurements is caused by single source illumination. Prairie has developed unique solutions to this problem. Our Single Path Photolysis Head and Laser Point Module each offer the researcher the ability to direct localized laser energy to a specific location while simultaneously imaging with conventional methods.

The Single Path Photolysis Head is designed to deliver a programmable point or points of UV energy to a point within the field of view of the microscope objective lens. A patent pending aiming indicator shows the operator exactly where the UV energy will be directed without exposing the specimen to any additional light. Easy to use controls allow precise positioning of the UV spot. The UV energy may be directly or remotely triggered. A fiber optic laser launch is required to deliver the UV energy into the Single Path Photolysis Head.