The Kratoscope, Kaer Labs – Automated 3D imaging of biological tissues

The Kratoscope is an innovative three-dimensional imaging system, coupled with a microtome-type cutting device (for paraffin-embedded tissues) or cryostat (for frozen tissues). It produces 2D images without the use of contrast agents or specific markers, by exploiting the natural autofluorescence of tissues at 470 nm.
Based on the principle of Serial Block Face Imaging, the Kratoscope automatically captures an image of the block surface between each tissue cut. This approach allows for 3D reconstruction of the sample (tissue or organ), providing detailed visualisation of its structure. The volumes obtained can then be used for segmentation, quantification or analysis of specific areas of interest.
The system can also detect fluorescence at 750 nm, thanks to an additional wavelength in the far red, thus expanding the possibilities for functional analysis.
The Kratoscope has a field of view ranging from 5 to 32 mm², with a resolution of 4.8 to 31.2 µm.