New laser technology for micromanipulation allows researchers to control movement in living cells

A new laser technology called FLUCS (Focused Light-induced Cytoplasmic Streaming) makes it possible to influence and specifically control movements within living cells and embryos. The technology developed at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics has now been licensed by Rapp OptoElectronic and can help us to better understand embryonic developmental disorders. As an additional module for high-resolution microscopes, FLUCS will not only improve cell biological and medical research in the future, but also open up new possibilities in microfluidics.