Patent ID: 6773903
Filing Date: 2004-08-10
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
A method of selectively separating an area of a cellular sample from the remaining portion of the cellular sample by microphotodissection which comprises:(a) supporting said cellular sample on a tissue support; (b) providing an apparatus which comprises (i) a microscope having an objective lens for viewing said cellular sample; a motorized stage for supporting said tissue support and providing movement of said cellular sample within a x-y coordinate plane; (ii) a UV laser which generates a laser beam for microphotodissecting said area of said cellular sample, wherein said UV laser is positioned such that said laser beam is directed at said area of said cellular sample through the objective lens of the microscope; (iii) a computer for controlling the location and movement of said motorized stage and for controlling the position, wavelength, pulse duration and energy level of the laser beam, wherein said computer comprises a video display which displays video images of said cellular sample; and (iv) a selection means for selecting said area of said cellular sample to be microphotodissected; (c) removably mounting said supported cellular sample on said motorized microscope stage; (d) selecting said area of said cellular sample to be microphotodissected; and (e) photodissecting said area with said UV laser.