High-resolution multiple optical-mode confocal microscope: I. System design image acquisition and 3D visualization

摘要

Abstract: We have designed and constructed an experimental confocal specimen-scanning microscope which has the capability of producing high resolution 3D images in a variety of optical modes, many of which are not currently available on commercial confocal microscopes. The transmission Nomarski differential interference contrast mode is particularly interesting because it can be utilized to image small changes in refractive index within complex biological specimens which are transparent in standard brightfield. The three-color reflection configuration can produce a color 3D image, which means that stained or pigmented objects will be similar in appearance to images obtained from conventional white light microscopes which makes them more recognizable.!5