Development of a compact UV laser optics which will largely enhance the analytical capability of flow-cytometers

Abstract:

Realization of “a vital and happy longevity society” is one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century not only for Europe but also for the rest of the world, both of which are experiencing a very rapid aging of their population. Incessant research efforts are being made globally on all medical fronts, among other things, in the field of regenerative medicine. Recently flow cytometry is becoming an ever more important and useful research tool in the said field. To optimize the analytical capability of a flow cytometer (system), proper combination of fluorochrome and light source, which excites the former, is needed. At present, however, some of the very useful fluorochromes such as Hoechst33342 and DAPI are underemployed , simply because there are no compact laser sources available in the wavelength region of 350 nm, the right stimulant light for those materials. This research aims at the development of a compact UV laser optics to be integrated into flow cytometers. The project includes (1)development of a low-UV-absorption Mg:SLT , i.e. non-linear optical crystal material (2) development of high-precision electric field poling process for the said material (2nd QPM structure) and (3)development of compact 355nm continuous-wave UV laser module with 100mW + output and 1,000 hours+ product life.