Low cost cloud based remote microscopy for biological sciences

TL;DR

This paper introduces a low-cost, cloud-based remote microscopy platform called Picroscope, enabling biological researchers to perform and analyze longitudinal cell imaging experiments remotely via web and cloud services.

Contribution

The paper presents the design and implementation of a novel, affordable remote microscopy device with integrated network, control, and data analysis capabilities for biological research.

Findings

Successful development of a low-cost remote microscopy platform

Enabling remote control and monitoring of biological experiments

Cloud-based data processing and analysis tools implemented

Abstract

A low cost remote imaging platform for biological applications was developed. The "Picroscope" is a device that allows the user to perform longitudinal imaging studies on multi-well cell culture plates. Here we present the network architecture and software used to facilitate communication between modules within the device as well as external cloud services. A web based console was created to control the device and view experiment results. Post processing tools were developed to analyze captured data in the cloud. The result is a platform for controlling biological experiments from outside the lab.