Built in-house
Hand-assembled and tested to order by the team that designs them.
Inherently aligned output
Image stacks export aligned for immediate 3D reconstruction with no registration, no section loss.
Integrated software
In-house software for control, acquisition and data handling free to download, user suggestions implemented.
Direct expert support
Support from the engineers who designed and built your system, not a generic helpdesk.
Custom to your requirements
Adapted for sample size, resolution, fluorescence channels and workflow before delivery.
ABOUT THE OHREM SYSTEMS
Optical HREM platforms for reproducible
3D block-face imaging
The OHREM Micro and Ultra are two dedicated optical high-resolution episcopic microscopy systems built in-house by Indigo Scientific for serial block-face imaging at micron-scale resolution. Both systems produce inherently aligned image stacks suitable for immediate 3D reconstruction with no registration step required.
Each system is hand-assembled and tested to order, configured for real research workflows, from individual benchtop labs to imaging core facilities running multi-sample acquisition campaigns. Systems can be adapted to sample size, required resolution and fluorescence channel configuration.
Support comes directly from the engineers who design and build the systems. We provide worldwide installation, training and ongoing technical support for all OHREM customers worldwide.
TWO PLATFORMS
One technique
Choose based on throughput, specimen size and required configuration. Both systems use the same HREM technique, the difference is scale and capability.
Ideal for routine HREM & smaller facilities
Optical HREM Micro
A benchtop system designed for routine HREM imaging. Suitable for embryos, small organs and medium-scale biological specimens. Straightforward acquisition workflow with consistent section-to-section alignment.
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Simple acquisition workflow, ideal for smaller laboratories
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Optimised for specimens between 1–15mm
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Single sample per run, standard throughput
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Optional XY stage for sample positioning and scanning
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Upgrades available: extra fluorescence channels, XY scanning
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Optional second illumination channel (e.g. LacZ)
Ideal for imaging cores, SBF experimentation & high-throughput
Optical HREM Ultra
The flexible platform for high-throughput environments and extended imaging projects. Designed for larger specimens, multi-sample runs and advanced experimental SBF configurations.
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Advanced scanning configurations for extended fields of view or increased resolution
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Multi-sample acquisition for large-scale phenotyping
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Expandable fluorescence channels for SBF experimentation
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Optimised for specimens up to 25mm × 25mm × 25mm (more if required)
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Designed for imaging cores and long-duration acquisition workflows
SIDE BY SIDE
OHREM Micro vs Ultra
Not sure which system is right for your lab? Use the comparison below — or contact our team to discuss your specific requirements.
Feature | OHREM Micro | OHREM Ultra |
|---|---|---|
Best for | Individual labs, developmental biology, routine morphological analysis | Imaging cores, large phenotyping screens, multi-lab facilities |
Electronic focus control | Standard | Advanced, with automated adjustment between samples |
Intended use | Routine imaging | High-throughput & core facilities |
Sample size & quantity | Single sample per run, typically 1–15mm | Multiple or larger samples, 1–25mm typical |
XY & scanning | Optional XY stage for positioning and scanning | Advanced scanning configurations for multi-sample and high-resolution acquisition |
Throughput | Standard acquisition runs | Extended runs and multiple samples |
Fluorescence | Optional second channel (e.g. Lac-Z) | Dual-channel standard, expandable up to four channels with optical sectioning options |
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
OHREM Specifications
Specifications may vary depending on system configuration and application requirements. Typical baseline parameters are listed below. Sample size is limited by sample preparation, quality etc and not system capabilities.
Core Imaging Parameters
Section thickness range
1-8 Micron (defines axial resolution)
Image capture resolution
20 megapixels
Field of view
~25mm to 1mm X/Y (variable)
Voxel resolution
1-8 micron
Output formats
TIFF, TIF, BMP, PNG, JPEG, JPG
Sample Specifications
Micro max sample size
25 × 25 × 25 mm
Ultra max sample size
70 × 70 × 35 mm (expandable)
Typical sample range
1–12 mm (most common)
Sample embedding
Resin block (PTFE moulds)
Fluorescence channels
Up to 4 (Ultra); 2 optional (Micro)
HREM Consumables & Accessories
A range of dedicated HREM consumables and accessories are available to support routine and high-throughput workflows:
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Precision blades
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PTFE moulds for sample production
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Sample holders for multiple samples and custom configurations
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Replacement components and custom setups
Everything needed for routine and high-throughput workflows
A full range of dedicated HREM consumables alongside your system, blades moulds chucks and holders, all for resin block face imaging.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Optical HREM Micro & Ultra
The Micro is a benchtop system designed for routine imaging of single samples up to 15mm, ideal for individual labs. The Ultra is a higher-throughput platform for imaging cores and facilities requiring multi-sample runs, extended fields of view, and advanced fluorescence configurations. Both use the same HREM technique — the choice is based on throughput, sample size and configuration requirements.
Are blades included with HREM systems?
A starter pack of consumables is included with each system. Ongoing consumables, including 80mm and 160mm tungsten carbide blades, PTFE moulds, chucks and split moulds, are available separately from Indigo Scientific.
How long does production type?
Each system is hand-assembled and tested to order. Lead times vary depending on configuration and current order volume, contact us for a current estimate. We are happy to provide lead time information for grant application planning purposes.
Are HREM systems customisable?
Yes — both systems can be configured to your specific requirements before delivery, including fluorescence channel selection, scanning stage options and sample holder configuration. Post-delivery upgrades are also available for some components. Contact us to discuss your requirements.
How do I request a quote or discuss a custom setup?
Contact our team with your sample type, size range, throughput requirements and any specific configuration needs. We will advise on the appropriate system and provide a detailed quotation. We are also happy to support grant application specifications — contact us with your timeline.
What types of samples are supported?
Both systems are designed for resin-embedded fixed samples. Common applications include mouse embryos (E9.5–E18.5), cardiac tissue, small animal organs (kidney, liver, lung, placenta), plant seeds and root structures. Sample sizes from below 1mm up to 25mm (Micro) or 70mm (Ultra) are supported.
Do you ship and support globally?
Yes — OHREM systems are shipped and supported worldwide. Installation and training can be carried out on-site or remotely. Ongoing technical support is provided directly by the Indigo Scientific engineering team. Contact us for shipping and installation details for your region.
Is the imaging software included?
Yes — all OHREM systems include our in-house imaging and control software for acquisition, image handling and stack management. Additional free tools for 3D viewing, image stack editing and stitching are also available. Data outputs are compatible with Fiji/ImageJ, Imaris, Dragonfly and other major analysis platforms.
What software is used for 3D reconstruction and analysis?
HREM data exports as inherently aligned TIF/TIFF stacks compatible with all major 3D analysis platforms — Fiji/ImageJ, Imaris, Dragonfly, 3D Slicer and Imalytics Preclinical. No registration step is required. Our free 3D Viewer tool is also available for immediate visualisation.
Indigo Scientific - HREM Team
Based in Hertfordshire, UK. Systems shipped and supported worldwide.