Nanotechnology Now - Press Release: FEI and Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry Collaborate on Correlative Microscopy

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Abstract:
Partnership commercializes stage and software to correlate optical and TEM review of biological samples under cryo conditions.

FEI and Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry Collaborate on Correlative Microscopy

HILLSBORO, OR and Martinsried, Germany | Posted on August 4th, 2008

FEI Company (Nasdaq: FEIC), a leading provider of high-resolution imaging and analysis systems, and Max Planck Institute (MPI) of Biochemistry, a leading biochemical research institution, announced today their collaboration on a correlative microscopy solution that enables scientists to quickly and easily acquire high-resolution transmission electron microscope (TEM) images of molecular entities found using optical microscopy techniques. Initial shipments are expected in the fourth quarter of 2008.

The correlative microscopy solution, which was developed by MPI of Biochemistry and will be marketed and distributed worldwide by FEI, includes a cryo-correlative stage for optical microscopes and associated software. Precise coordinates for features of interest identified with optical techniques can be quickly transferred to the TEM, which can then navigate automatically to the specified location to acquire high-resolution images of the designated structure.

"Optical techniques, such as fluorescent probes, can identify and localize features of interest in biological specimens with extremely high sensitivity and specificity, but optical microscopy cannot resolve the feature's structure," said Professor Wolfgang Baumeister, director at the MPI of Biochemistry. "The solution we are developing will allow researchers to use optical techniques to identify targets, then transfer the sample and grid coordinates to a TEM and automatically navigate to those targets to obtain high-resolution images, maintaining the sample in a frozen, hydrated state throughout the entire process."

"TEM can provide two-dimensional images and three-dimensional reconstructions of biological materials with nanometer-scale resolution, sufficient to resolve the tertiary and quaternary structure of proteins and essential features of other macromolecules and molecular complexes," said Matthew Harris, vice president and general manager of FEI's Life Sciences Division. "However, without the localization provided by optical techniques, finding those molecules is extremely difficult. Think of it as trying to find a particular string of glass beads in a barrel full of beads. With correlative microscopy, you can use techniques such as fluorescent markers to light up the string you are interested in, and then go back to the same location for a closer look with the TEM."

In addition to the commercial release of the cryo-correlative stage, MPI of Biochemistry and FEI will implement a unique program designed to solicit participation from leading life science researchers in the further definition of correlative microscopy applications and methods. Through participation in the program researchers will have access to a correlative stage for extended use in their own ongoing experimental programs, thus affording the research community with opportunities to better understand the benefits of correlative microscopy as they help refine requirements for future solutions.

"We believe that the guidance we receive from user participants in this innovative development program will significantly enhance the practical value of future correlative microscopy solutions. Our collaborative approach with MPI of Biochemistry and individual researchers demonstrates the importance FEI places on interaction with leaders in the field in the design of new products and methods," said Dr. Wim Voorhout, product marketing manager in FEI's Life Sciences Division.

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About FEI Company
FEI (Nasdaq: FEIC) is the world leader in pioneering technologies and applications that deliver imaging solutions for 3D characterization, analysis and modification/prototyping with resolutions down to the sub-Ångström level. Our customers, working in advanced research and manufacturing, are supported by field-experienced applications specialists. They have open access to FEI’s prestigious global user network so they can succeed in accelerating nanoscale discovery and contribute to better living through new product commercialization. FEI’s NanoPorts in North America, Europe and Asia provide centers of technical excellence where our world-class community of customers and specialists collaborate on the ongoing development of new ideas and innovative solutions. FEI has sales and service operations in more than 50 countries around the world.

About Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry

The Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry is part of the Max Planck Society, a non-profit research organization dedicated to top level basic research. The MPI of Biochemistry, which currently has ten departments and 15 independent junior research groups, is one of the largest Institutes within the Max Planck Society's biomedical section. While its size enables the Institute to maintain a variety of research programs, it also provides a basis for developing a research focus with close collaboration among the departments. The research focus of the Institute might best be described as the examination of the structure, function and interaction of biological macromolecules (especially proteins), commencing with a single molecule, progressing to the cell and the organism as a whole. More information can be found at: www.biochem.mpg.de/baumeister/.

FEI Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements about the development of a correlative microscopy product, its expected availability for shipment and potential benefits. Factors that could affect these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to unanticipated difficulties in the product collaboration, problems in completing engineering and development, manufacturing delays or problems due to issues with vendors or otherwise, failure of the product launch and failure of the product or technology to perform as expected and achieve anticipated benefits. Please also refer to the company's Form 10-K, Forms 10-Q, Forms 8-K and other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for additional information on these factors and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. FEI assumes no duty to update any forward- looking statements.

The FEI logo is a trademark of FEI Company.

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