What is T1 Relaxometry in Quantum Sensing?
T1 Relaxometry in Quantum Sensing is a sophisticated technique that harnesses the unique quantum behavior of electrons within a Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) center embedded in a Fluorescent Nanodiamond (FND). Within the diamond lattice, a carbon atom is purposefully replaced with a larger nitrogen atom, creating a vacancy adjacent to the nitrogen – this forms the highly sensitive NV center. The electrons within an NV center are exquisitely sensitive to external magnetic interference, which directly alters their fluorescence properties. We excite these electrons using precise laser pulses (typically in the 500-600nm range). The excited electrons then emit photons (in the 650-800nm range) as they decay back to their ground state. By varying the intervals between these laser pulses, we observe how the excited electrons return to their ground state at different rates, depending on the magnetic interference present. Plotting the initial re-excitation after a dark time versus the dark time itself creates a T1 relaxation curve. Through the analysis of this curve, a precise T1 relaxation time can be extrapolated. Crucially, the T1 relaxation curve changes significantly in direct correlation with the presence of magnetic interference from free radicals.
Applying T1 Relaxometry in Living Cells
While nanodiamonds can be used to detect a wide variety of samples—from materials and electrical currents—at QT Sense, we are primarily focused on their groundbreaking application for free radical detection in living cells. These biocompatible nanodiamonds can be incorporated into cells, either residing on the cell surface or being absorbed via endocytosis into the cytoplasm or even directed to specific organelles. To acquire precise real-time measurements of free radicals around these nanodiamonds, we utilize our specialized instrument, the Quantum Nuova system. This allows for continuous monitoring of the effects of drugs, stressors, or any other cellular intervention.
Operational Excellence with Quantum Nuova
The Quantum Nuova system is a meticulously modified confocal microscopy platform, specifically engineered for highly accurate T1 relaxometry measurements. The experimental workflow is streamlined and designed for user convenience:
- Sample Preparation: Your samples, whether they are liquids (such as blood), live cells, or tissues, are prepared under normal conditions following standard protocols.
- Automated Setup: The sample container is precisely placed on the objective within the Quantum Nuova system. Our proprietary Quantum Pulse Software, uniquely designed for the Quantum Nuova, then intelligently assists in finding and validating the appropriate nanodiamonds for measurement. It ensures nanodiamonds meet specific intensity, size, and placement criteria. If your experiment requires nanodiamonds at a particular organelle, this can be precisely verified and targeted within the software.
- Non-Photobleaching Sensors: Before initiating the experiment, the selected nanodiamonds are confirmed to be non-photobleaching, a critical advantage that allows for prolonged, uninterrupted experiments without signal degradation.
- Parameter Control: Within the Quantum Pulse Software, you maintain full control over all parameters for your T1 relaxometry experiment, including the dark times between laser pulses, step size, and more.
- Automated Data Analysis: Once parameters are set, the Quantum Nuova system initiates the experiment and provides a fully automated analysis of the acquired data. The T1 relaxation curve and corresponding T1 relaxation time are clearly displayed on the screen, ready for immediate interpretation.
Successful experiments hinge on the selection of appropriate nanodiamonds and the optimization of T1 relaxometry parameters. At QT Sense, we are committed to your success. We provide expert support in determining the best settings for your specific experiments, and our Quantum Pulse Software intelligently selects the most suitable nanodiamonds to ensure your research achieves maximum success and impactful results.
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