Leica CM1950 S Cryostat Microtome
| Brand | Leica |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | CM1950 S Cryostat Microtome |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The Leica CM1950 S Cryostat Microtome is a precision-engineered cryogenic sectioning system designed for reproducible, high-fidelity tissue sectioning at sub-zero temperatures. Operating on the principle of cryo-microtomy—where biological specimens are rapidly frozen and sectioned under controlled thermal conditions—the CM1950 S maintains specimen integrity by minimizing ice crystal formation through its integrated triple-stage refrigeration architecture. This ensures optimal preservation of cellular morphology, antigenicity, and enzymatic activity—critical parameters for downstream immunohistochemistry (IHC), in situ hybridization (ISH), and rapid intraoperative pathology assessment. The instrument complies with ISO 13485:2016 for medical device quality management systems and supports GLP-compliant workflows in diagnostic histopathology laboratories.
Key Features
- Triple-stage cooling system: Combines Peltier-based specimen stage cooling (−35 °C to −25 °C), cabinet air recirculation, and independent knife cooling to suppress ice nucleation and ensure consistent section thickness across variable tissue types.
- UVC germicidal irradiation: Integrated UVC light source (254 nm) validated per ISO 15714:2019 for surface decontamination; third-party testing confirms ≥99.9% reduction of SARS-CoV-2 and other enveloped viruses on exposed surfaces after 15-minute exposure cycles.
- Nano-silver antimicrobial coating: Applied to high-touch surfaces including control panel, specimen clamp, and chamber door handles; inhibits bacterial colonization per ISO 22196:2011 (JIS Z 2801) standards.
- Negative-pressure aspiration: Dedicated exhaust path with HEPA-filtered airflow removes aerosolized cryo-debris during sectioning, reducing cross-contamination risk and improving operator respiratory safety per OSHA 1910.1200 guidelines.
- Ergonomic workstation design: Adjustable footwell clearance (≥65 cm vertical leg space), recessed base chassis, and tactile-positive control buttons optimized for gloved operation (compatible with ASTM F2878-19 standard nitrile and latex gloves).
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The CM1950 S accommodates standard OCT-embedded tissue blocks (up to 30 × 40 mm), unfixed fresh-frozen specimens, and decalcified bone samples pre-treated with cryoprotectants. It supports section thickness ranging from 1–100 µm with manual or motorized advance options. All operational parameters—including temperature setpoints, section thickness, and cutting speed—are logged with timestamped audit trails compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with Leica Application Suite (LAS X) software. The system meets CE marking directives (2014/30/EU EMC, 2014/35/EU LVD) and carries UL 61010-1 certification for laboratory equipment safety.
Software & Data Management
When interfaced with Leica LAS X Core software (v4.13 or later), the CM1950 S enables automated parameter recall, user-defined protocol templates, and encrypted session logging. Audit trail functionality records all configuration changes, user logins, and maintenance events—including UVC cycle activation timestamps and refrigeration system diagnostics. Export formats include CSV and PDF for integration into LIMS environments. Optional DICOM-SR export supports digital pathology workflows aligned with CAP and CLIA reporting standards.
Applications
- Routine frozen section diagnosis in surgical pathology labs
- Pre-analytical preparation for mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) and spatial transcriptomics
- Neuroscience research requiring intact lipid bilayer preservation
- Quality control of biobanked tissues under ISO 20387:2018 biobanking standards
- Training platforms for histotechnologist certification programs accredited by ASCP and HTL/HT(ASCP)
FAQ
What is the minimum achievable section thickness with the CM1950 S?
The instrument achieves nominal section thicknesses down to 1 µm using a high-tolerance tungsten-carbide knife and optimized thermal stabilization.
Does the CM1950 S support remote monitoring or IoT integration?
Yes—via optional Ethernet connectivity and Leica Remote Service (LRS) module, enabling secure firmware updates and predictive maintenance alerts based on compressor runtime and temperature variance logs.
Is the UVC disinfection cycle programmable?
UVC activation is manually initiated via dedicated front-panel button; cycle duration (15 or 30 minutes) is configurable in service mode and recorded in the audit trail.
Can the CM1950 S be integrated into an existing hospital PACS infrastructure?
While not a DICOM imaging device, metadata generated during sectioning (e.g., block ID, date/time, operator ID) can be exported and mapped to PACS via HL7 interface modules supported by Leica’s enterprise integration services.
