Open AccessMultiphoton microscopy: An introduction to gastroenterologists
Author(s) -
Hye Jin Cho,
Hoon Jai Chun,
Eun Sun Kim,
Bong Rae Cho
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
world journal of gastroenterology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.427
H-Index - 155
eISSN - 2219-2840
pISSN - 1007-9327
DOI - 10.3748/wjg.v17.i40.4456
Subject(s) - microscopy , multiphoton fluorescence microscope , two photon excitation microscopy , fluorophore , optics , fluorescence microscope , phototoxicity , nanotechnology , materials science , chemistry , physics , fluorescence , biochemistry , in vitro
Multiphoton microscopy, relying on the simultaneous absorption of two or more photons by a fluorophore, has come to occupy a prominent place in modern biomedical research with its ability to allow real-time observation of a single cell and molecules in intact tissues. Multiphoton microscopy exhibits nonlinear optical contrast properties, which can make it possible to provide an exceptionally large depth penetration with less phototoxicity. This system becomes more and more an inspiring tool for a non-invasive imaging system to realize "optical biopsy" and to examine the functions of living cells. In this review, we briefly present the physical principles and properties of multiphoton microscopy as well as the current applications in biological fields. In addition, we address what we see as the future potential of multiphoton microscopy for gastroenterologic research.