DNA sequencing or genome sequencing is an extremely powerful tool that allows the identification of the four basic DNA molecules adenine (A), cytosine (C), guanine (G), and thymine (T) by tagging them with fluorescence reporter molecules. This allows for the rapid determination of the precise order of A, C, G, and T molecules allowing for the entire DNA strand to be coded. In DNA sequencing lasers are focused either through a flow channel (like in flow cytometry) or onto a microplate where the tagged molecules ordered and scanned. Like all fluorescence applications, most of the visible wavelengths can be used in DNA sequencing, but it’s essential that all DNA sequencing lasers have a high quality TEM00 beam profile. On this page, you will find a list of all of the full range of DNA sequencing lasers we offer at RPMC, including our multi-laser combiner.
Lasers and DNA Sequencing
How do DPSS Lasers Fill the ‘Yellow Gap?’
The wavelength range of a particular semiconductor material is far beyond the scope of this blog post. Still, if you would like a deeper dive into the subject, you can learn more in a previous post titled “Laser Diode Fundamentals: Bandgap Energy and Wavelength.” While there are some direct laser sources such as the yellow HeNe laser, the lack of efficient direct solid-state lasers in the region has primarily led to the lack of yellow lasers on the market today. But, as we have shown in several previous posts on this subject, this dead zone lines up with several biologically relevant fluorophores used in fluorescence microscopy and DNA sequencing. Luckily, through the use of second-harmonic generation, DPSS lasers can be used to fill this gap.
Multi-Wavelength Laser Sources for Multi-Color Fluorescence Microscopy
Fluorescence spectroscopy is a powerful technique for identifying the presence of particular molecular species of interest. This technique has allowed for many of the advances in biochemistry that we now take for granted today. For example, fluorescence spectroscopy is the cornerstone of DNA sequencing for the identification of the four basic DNA molecules, adenine (A), cytosine (C), guanine (G), and thymine (T) by tagging them with fluorescence reporter molecules. A detailed analysis of fluorescence tagging will be discussed later in the article, but for now, it’s important to understand that this allows for the rapid determination of the precise order of A, C, G, and T molecules, so the entire DNA strand to be coded [1]. Another typical application of fluorescence spectroscopy comes from the field of anti-counterfeiting where fluorescent tags are added to the ink of currency, which when illuminated by the proper excitation wavelength emit a unique fluorescence spectrum known only to the manufacturer [2]. In this particular article, we are going to mainly focus our attention on the application of fluorescence in the field of microscopy, where it can be used to generate multispectral images of cells and other small objects for identifying the spatial distribution of molecules of interest in complex heterogeneous samples.
With over 25 years experience providing DNA sequencing lasers to researchers and OEM integrators working in various markets and applications, and 1000s of units fielded, we have the experience to ensure you get the right product for the application. Working with RPMC ensures you are getting trusted advice from our knowledgeable and technical staff on a wide range of laser products. RPMC and our manufacturers are willing and able to provide custom solutions for your unique application.
If you have any questions, or if you would like some assistance please Contact Us here. Furthermore, you can email us at info@rpmclasers.comto talk to a knowledgeable Product Manager.
Alternatively, use the filters on this page to assist in narrowing down the selection of DNA sequencing lasers for sale. Finally, head to our Knowledge Center with our Lasers 101 page and Blogs, Whitepapers, and FAQ pages for further, in-depth reading.
The Matchbox series offers excellent performance and reliability in the “World’s Smallest” ultra-compact, all-in-one, integrated laser head. They can operate on a 5V power supply while maintaining low noise operation. The monolithic design of the Matchbox Series laser includes thermally stabilized optics in a hermetically sealed housing, ensuring reliable and maintenance-free operation. This series is available in wavelengths from 405 nm thru 1064nm, with options for collimated beam or fiber-coupled output, and single-mode and multimode version.
The LaserBoxx Low Noise series of CW diode laser modules, with a variety of wavelengths from 375 to 785nm and output powers up to 350mW,offers highly customizable laser solutions for OEM and plug & play modules. With advanced features such as excellent beam quality, stability, and modulation capabilities, our lasers provide ultra-low noise and a wide range of options for SM, MM, and PM fiber coupling. Our dedicated control software, USB and RS232 interfaces, and external controller with power display make integration, operation, and remote diagnostics a breeze. Additionally, our rugged and compact design and wide variety of standard wavelengths ensure that our lasers can meet your specific needs.
The LXCc series is a range of compact, highly customizable, and flexible all-in-one laser combiners that provide the widest variety of wavelength options, up to 7 different laser lines (up to 500 mW output power per line), direct modulation on every source, SLM capabilities, proven long-term stability, and many other advanced features. The turnkey or OEM versions allow a large choice of lasers from 375nm up to 1064nm. The extension module provides the ultimate level of flexibility with options for up to 4 optical fiber outputs, AOTF modulator, motorized ND filter, integrated fast switching output ports for FRAP, or adjustable split power for light-sheet microscopy.
The RHAML series of diode laser modules deliver a uniform, stable output beam that crucual for machine vision applcations, especially in 3D vision systems. The compact, RHAML series is a reliable light source that incoroporates a fucusing lens that can be easily adjusted by the user. Additionally, the RHAML series is fully IP67 compliant, making it an ideal solution for use in harsh environmental conditions and production/industrial facilities.
The RML series of laser diode modules are available with single mode fiber outputs with a set wavelength from 405nm – 2500nm. The compact RML series is available with up to 80mW of output power in a package measuring 15mm in diameter and 40mm in length (without connector) . As an option these modules are offered with a potentiometer for power adjustment, external TTL modulation up to 1MHz and analog modulation up to 100kHz.