Optical tweezers using a diode laser

Abstract

Simple modifications were made to a commercial microscope to enable injection of light from a diode laser, and demonstrate optical tweezers action. The basic properties of microscope optics are presented together with discussion of principles to be followed in arranging the external optics for achieving useful tweezers. Procedures using a single-mode diode laser along with experimental results are presented in enough detail to permit readers to make their own system for trapping and manipulating single cells. It is surprisingly easy to demonstrate tweezers action once some basic concepts are understood.