Optical High-Resolution Episcopic Microscopy
Precise 3D Imaging of Embryos, Organs & Plants with Indigo Scientific Optical HREM
What is High-Resolution Episcopic Microscopy (HREM)?
High-Resolution Episcopic Microscopy(HREM) is a block face imaging technique that acquires 2D images perfectly aligned for generating 3-dimensional volumes. Optical HREM systems use automation to image/scan block face surfaces with resolutions down to 1 micron3.
This resolution over larger samples from <1mm up to 25mm makes it ideal for imaging whole complex and dense structures such as full embryos, organs and plant structures.
Why Choose HREM?
High-Resolution Episcopic Microscopy (HREM) bridges the gap between low-resolution whole-organ imaging techniques like micro-CT and ultra-high-resolution methods such as confocal and electron microscopy. It delivers true 3D datasets with voxel sizes between 1–8 microns — without the need for clearing, staining, or optical sectioning. This makes HREM ideal for developmental biology, toxicology, and phenotyping, offering consistent, high-contrast results across entire samples.
Optical HREM Applications
HREM is a 3D block-face imaging technique capable of micron-scale resolution on larger, denser biological samples. It enables high-quality 3D reconstructions, making it ideal for applications where spatial context is difficult to achieve with traditional methods.
Developmental Biology & Embryology
High-Resolution Episcopic Microscopy is used in developmental biology for the whole imaging of embryos in murine models, chick embryos and zebrafish. It allows for preservation of spatial tissue relationships supporting analysis of gene knockouts and morphogenesis.
Whole Organ Imaging
Produce near histology level 2D sections of whole organs that combine for 3D reconstruction. For analysis of small organs such as kidney, lung, heart, and brain in detail supporting high-throughput screening and phenotyping.
Data Output and Software
Optical HREM systems are delivered with a lifetime license for the instrument for our specifically designed software suite OHREM acquire. Designed specifically for block face imaging using the MICRO or ULTRA systems.
Data is outputted in singular 2D images, aligned perfectly in the Z direction for easy analysis. Images appear with a white background and a grey/subject with exceptionally high contrast, which can easily be adjusted and inverted.
Choose from either jpg, jpeg, tif, tiff, bmp images, which can be easily integrated into pipelines. The image stacks can then be combined into a 3D imaging software such as dragonfly.
At Indigo we also offer some easy starter software packages to help get you started with processing. View our tutorials here on image processing and stitching of HREM samples.
Overview
Optical HREM Micro is designed for cost-effective, stand-alone lab use for excellent contrast 3D images. Micro systems are designed and assembled by out team in the UK with OHREM Acquire software for control of imaging and sectioning.
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Fixed stage design (no XY stage) with fine manual adjustments
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Bright-field imaging with strong native contrast of samples up to 15mm
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A reduced footprint to the ULTRA system
Specification
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XY stage type: Fixed (fine adjustments)
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Sample/Block capacity: 1 Block per section
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Field of view: 1mm-25mm (required manual centring)
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Resolution: 1-8 micron
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Channels: HREM Channel (upgradeable channels available)
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Use cases: Heart imaging, small embryos
Optical HREM ULTRA
Overview
HREM Ultra provides a platform for block face imaging experimentation and HREM imaging at higher magnification. Ultra comes standard with an XY stage and other peripherals to enhance imaging for throughput or resolution. Ultra instruments are designed and assembled in the UK by our team controlled by the OHREM acquire acquisition software for simplistic control of the ULTRA.
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Automated XY stage for centring, stitching and multiple samples
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Bright-field imaging with strong native contrast up to 15mm, greater contrast with higher magnifications while stitching
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Extended platform for throughput and larger samples
Specification
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XY stage type: Automated with Joystick (stitching, multiple samples, centring)
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Sample/Block capacity: 4 Block per section, multiple samples in one block
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Field of view: 1mm-25mm
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Resolution: 1-8 micron
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Channels: HREM + 1(e.g DAPI/Texas Red) as standard
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Use cases: Ideal for facilities to provide a platform for imaging advanced research workflows
Why Indigo Scientific?
Indigo Scientific’s Optical HREM systems provide unique platform for performing reliable 3D imaging. Whether you're working in developmental biology, medical pathology, agricultural research or translational research our systems provide:
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Consistent 3D imaging over long experiments and imaging sessions
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Dedicated and advanced software suite for imaging Optical HREM
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Global Support and Training for getting HREM set up in you’re lab
Indigo Scientific Optical HREM systems are used in facility’s and labs all around the world.
