A1 Journal article (refereed)
NIRis: A low-cost, versatile imaging system for near-infrared fluorescence detection of phototrophic cell colonies used in research and education (2024)

Franz, O., Häkkänen, H., Kovanen, S., Heikkilä-Huhta, K., Nissinen, R., & Ihalainen, J. A. (2024). NIRis: A low-cost, versatile imaging system for near-infrared fluorescence detection of phototrophic cell colonies used in research and education. PLoS ONE, 19(5), Article e0287088. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0287088

JYU authors or editors

Publication details

All authors or editors: Franz, Ole; Häkkänen, Heikki; Kovanen, Salla; Heikkilä-Huhta, Kati; Nissinen, Riitta; Ihalainen, Janne A.

Journal or series: PLoS ONE

eISSN: 1932-6203

Publication year: 2024

Publication date: 21/05/2024

Volume: 19

Issue number: 5

Article number: e0287088

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Publication country: United States

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0287088

Publication open access: Openly available

Publication channel open access: Open Access channel

Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/95071

Abstract

A variety of costly research-grade imaging devices are available for the detection of spectroscopic features. Here we present an affordable, open-source and versatile device, suitable for a range of applications. We provide the files to print the imaging chamber with commonly available 3D printers and instructions to assemble it with easily available hardware. The imager is suitable for rapid sample screening in research, as well as for educational purposes. We provide details and results for an already proven set-up which suits the needs of a research group and students interested in UV-induced near-infrared fluorescence detection of microbial colonies grown on Petri dishes. The fluorescence signal confirms the presence of bacteriochlorophyll a in aerobic anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria (AAPB). The imager allows for the rapid detection and subsequent isolation of AAPB colonies on Petri dishes with diverse environmental samples. To this date, 15 devices have been build and more than 7000 Petri dishes have been analyzed for AAPB, leading to over 1000 new AAPB isolates. Parts can be modified depending on needs and budget. The latest version with automated switches and double band pass filters costs around 350€ in materials and resolves bacterial colonies with diameters of 0.5 mm and larger. The low cost and modular build allow for the integration in high school classes to educate students on light properties, fluorescence and microbiology. Computer-aided design of 3D-printed parts and programming of the employed Raspberry Pi computer could be incorporated in computer sciences classes. Students have been also inspired to do agar art with microbes. The device is currently used in seven different high schools in Finland. Additionally, a science education network of Finnish universities has incorporated it in its program for high school students. Video guides have been produced to facilitate easy operation and accessibility of the device.

Keywords: fluorescence; imaging; near infrared spectroscopy; artificial light; 3D printing; computing devices

Free keywords: fluorescence imaging; fluorescence; artificial light; near-infrared spectroscopy; white light; 3D printing; computer hardware; schools

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Ministry reporting: Yes

Reporting Year: 2024

Preliminary JUFO rating: 1