Where precision meets possibility

Platforms that accelerate translational research

We provide researchers and innovators with life science instrumentation that accelerates translational research, using mechanobiology insights. Our instruments allow measurements in near- physiological conditions that provide functional readouts in an easy-to-use, high-throughput way.

Our unique technology allows researchers to apply game-changing insights at the micro-scale in the discovery, development, testing, and manufacturing of next generation therapeutics. The principles we apply to every platform are precision, versatility, and efficiency. Working together with our vast community of collaborators, our platforms fit into the biological workflow and allow any laboratory to upscale their research with exceptional mechanical insights.

Trusted by researchers in top research institutions and Universities, CRO’s, pharma and biotech companies.

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Multiple installations in 24+ countries around the world

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460+ publications
with Optics11 Life technology

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A team of 60+
passionate people

3D in vitro modeling for engineered muscle bundles

By designing innovative solutions, our newest platform helps to generate near-physiological 3D muscle tissues to advance the extensive research, drug testing, and therapy development objectives of our collaborators and customers.

Brought to the market in 2023, our 3D contraction force system provides a comprehensive, fully integrated muscle culture platform. The Cuore allows researchers the ability to culture, monitor, stimulate, and analyze engineered muscle bundles. The ease of use, high sensitivity, and the integrated electrodes and sensors make the Cuore an ideal technology to investigate the biology of contractile tissues and their response to drugs. 

Cuore

The Cuore revolutionizes 3D tissue culture for therapy development in heart failure & neuromuscular diseases.

Cuore is a 3D contraction force platform that revolutionizes 3D tissue culture for therapy development in heart failure and neuromuscular diseases.

Nanoindentation Instruments

Explore the Frontier of Mechanobiology with Optics11 Life’s Nanoindentors: Piuma, Chiaro, and Pavone. 

Welcome to the cutting-edge world of mechanobiology, where precision, control, and innovation come together. At Optics11 Life, we are proud to present our range of advanced nanoindentors – the Piuma, Chiaro, and Pavone. Each instrument in our lineup is designed with a singular vision: to empower your research with the ability to measure and control mechanobiology at the cell scale, under physiological conditions, and with incredible precision.

What Can You Do Now That Wasn't Possible Before?

Our nanoindentors are more than just measurement tools; they are gateways to a deeper understanding of the cellular environment. With integrated correlative analysis, Piuma, Chiaro, and Pavone offer a comprehensive view of cellular behavior, enabling you to correlate mechanical properties with cellular function in ways never before possible.

The essence of groundbreaking research is not solely observation, but also understanding. Our nanoindentors allow you to monitor and consider the biomechanics of cells and their microenvironment with unparalleled precision. This understanding opens new avenues for experimentation, leading to more robust and replicable results, ensuring success in your cellular studies.

Traditional methods often overlook key elements of cellular models. With our nanoindentors, you’re not just observing; you’re engaging with the very core of cellular mechanics. This means you can now uncover aspects of your model that were previously out of reach, leading to more comprehensive and insightful research outcomes.

Chiaro

The Chiaro Nanoindenter is a microscope-compatible system for the mechanical characterization of small tissues, cells, organoids, spheroids, and microparticles.

PIUMA

The Piuma Nanoindenter is a benchtop device designed to measure the mechanical properties of large tissues, biomaterials, and hydrogels at cell length scales.
Piuma is a compact, standalone, and manual nanoindentor enabling the exploration of mechanical properties from micro- to macro scales in near physiological conditions.

Pavone

Pavone is automated and optimized for the biological workflow. It is a high-throughput, accurate, and easy-to-use solution that measures the local mechanical properties of cells, biomaterials, and 3D in vitro models.

Your Research, Redefined

Optics11 Life’s nanoindenters are not just tools; they are your partners in redefining the boundaries of what is possible in mechanobiology research. Whether you are delving into the nuances of cell mechanics, exploring the complexities of tissue engineering, or breaking new ground in drug development, our technology is designed to elevate your research to new heights.

Join us in this journey of discovery and innovation. Explore our range, find the platform that best fits your research needs, and step into a new era of mechanobiological exploration.

DevicePiumaChiaroPavone
Dimensions (cm)20x25x3020x25x3067x58x36
Mechanical Testing: Quasi-Static
Mechanical Testing: Dynamic**
Mapping Capabilities●●
Microscopy Capabilities●●●●●
Ideal for Biomaterials and Tissues
Ideal for 2D and 3D Cell Models-
Environmental controlTemp *-Temp, CO2*,
humidity*
Compatible with Most Labware
Streamlined Workflow in Wellplates--
Throughtput●●●
Automation●●●
Modular--

Technology

The technology of Optics11 Life is based on two key elements: fiber optic sensing and state-of-the- art mechatronics. This combination allows the company to develop cutting-edge measurement systems that can measure where others can’t.

Optics11 Life has refined the optical fiber Fabry-Perôt interferometry for force sensing to deliver highly sensitive, accurate, and user-friendly devices. As a result, our fiber-optic-based force sensors are providing a unique solution for micro-mechanical, in situ analysis of soft- and living materials.

To put these sensors to optimal use, Optics11 Life engineers state-of-the-art mechatronic solutions. This allows our instruments to measure mechanical properties of complex materials with uneven topography in near-physiological conditions.

Optics11 Life instruments can perform various mechanical measurements, such as static and dynamic indentation, including creep, stress-relaxation and Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA). Furthermore, load-displacement curves are analyzed to provide Young’s modulus, storage modulus and loss modulus.

Often some form of imaging modality can be used to interpret the results from the mechanical analysis. For example, determining the relationship between structure- and stiffness. Optics11 Life specializes in integrating all essential aspects for the analysis of complex biomaterials and soft biological materials.

At the center of our technology, are pre-aligned, reusable, and pre-calibrated fiber optic probes. All our probes are designed and developed to adhere to the highest quality standards, to provide precise and accurate functional readouts.

PROBE

noun

  1. Interferometric, fiber optic force transducer 
  2. Using interference (of light) through optics and glass fibers to measure a quantity that is converted into a force 

A glimpse into the probes production process​

Our probes are fabricated using a combination of high-tech tools and manual dexterity.


First, a cantilever is fixed to the top surface of a glass ferrule. A tiny glass fiber is then attached to the tip of the cantilever to create an extension that will hold the indenter sphere. This fiber is cut to a specified length using a laser ablation system, and a sphere is added to one end.


Next, a single-mode optical fiber is attached to the ferrule at a specific angle to the cantilever, which allows for the deflection to be measured with high precision using interferometry. The sensor is then fixed in a 3D-printed holder to allow for easy handling and mounting in our indentation equipment. This is when a sensor is truly born.


Third, a final production check is performed to ensure every probe meets the highest quality and performance standards.


Last, we ensure that each probe is pre-calibrated. A calibration procedure performed on a highly sensitive scale allows us to accurately measure the key specifications of the probe. If the specifications perform within the pre-defined range, the probe is inspected once more before being packed, ready for use.

PLATFORMS THAT ACCELERATE TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH

Whether your focus lies on mechanical measurements and characterization at the cell scale, or you work with muscle tissues, our platforms offer you precise, fast, and accurate outcomes. Discover more about how our products can help you accelerate and achieve your research goals. 

WHO WE ARE

We are a growing team of 60+ passionate people, headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Learn more about our journey so far, meet our team of professionals, and our career opportunities. 

SERVICE & SUPPORT

From initial interest to full-scale implementation, and throughout the entire lifecycle of our instruments, we offer our customers a dedicated and customized experience. We focus on optimizing the functionality and operation of our instruments, to ensure peak efficiency, enhancing their research productivity.

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