DM6000 CFS.qxd:DM6000 CFS - Duke University Light Microscopy ...

Data Correlation (ψ/F)Recording of electrical (e.g. patch-clamp) data is typically relatedto stimulation (electrical or chemical sensory stimulation of theanimal). Current or voltage is recorded briefly before, during andafter stimulation. The time frame for recording data after stimulationdepends on effect-relaxation.To synchronize the image acquisition and the electrophysiologicalrecordings, precise triggers are necessary. The Leica TCS SP5hardware provides different types of outbound triggers, such asframe, line and pixel triggers. They can be used to synchronize theapplication of stimuli or external recording devices. On the otherhand, input triggers can be used to start or continue image scanningin response to arbitrary external events, thus increasing theflexibility in data acquisition. For example, the synchronization ofheart beat and image acquisition could be performed by a specialinput trigger to minimize the influence of heart activity on theimage data.With the Leica software LAS AF, data evaluation of the electrophysiologicalsignals can be performed online providing precisecorrelation with imaging data. For the analysis of electrical andoptical data, the relevant basic functions are implemented. Onlinedata evaluation enables the validation of the recorded data and isimportant in helping the researcher quickly decide how the externalparameters should be modified for the best results.Options for data correlation• Correlation of optical and electricaldata• Input triggering to start imageacquisition• Output triggering to control stimuli• Synchronization of scanning withexternal devices• Control of environmental conditionsby online data analysis10