Laser Tweezers and Laser Scissors

Chapter 14 covers the usage of a laser beam as a tool for micromanipulation of biological specimens. Two types of laser micromanipulation discussed are laser tweezers for optical trapping and laser scissors for microdissection. The principle of laser optical trapping using a laser is explained. Chapter 14 also provides a detailed discussion of the design of a laser tweezer for the benefit of readers interested in building their own laser tweezers. The use of pulsed laser beam for microdissection of a tissue is discussed. The applications covered are both fundamental, such as in the studies of single molecular biofunction, and applied, such as for reproductive medicine and in plant breeding.