A flexible system for microscope fluorometry served by a personal computer.

An automated microscope fluorometer based on a modified Leitz MPV I system is described. Automation is mainly attained by the use of a cheap, commercially available personal computer system programmed in extended BASIC supplemented by a few assembly-level subroutines. The automation has resulted in simplified measuring procedures and increased measuring speed. The statistical precision is enhanced because greater cell populations can be analysed within reasonable time. Programs for several biological applications are described. Routines for cell population analysis, including storage of data on disk files, has proved especially useful. Programs for recording of corrected fluorescence emission spectra and of time-dependent fluorescence variables have also been developed. A high flexibility is achieved, as the BASIC programs can readily be modified for specific purposes. Some data on the sensitivity and reproducibility of the instrument alone, and in combination with a staining method, are also presented.