Development of a confocal laser scanning fluorescence microscope using two-photon excitation in combination with time-gated detection

摘要

Fluorescent molecules having single-photon absorption in the blue and the UV can be excited with infra-red light via a process known as two-photon excitation. The combination of this technique with scanning techniques can be exploited for 3D microscopic imaging. The two- photon process is confined to a restricted volume in the sample determined by the laser focus, resulting in inherent confocality. Other advantages are reduced photo-bleaching of the samples and a larger penetration depth of the excitation light. The implementation of time-gated detection techniques allows fluorescent lifetime imaging. This drastically improves the selectivity and contrast of the images.