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Two-photon microscopy with wavelength switchable fiber laser excitation
Optics Express
|June 17, 2009
Summary
This study introduces two-photon fiber laser excitation (TP-FLEX) for scanning microscopy, offering a portable and tunable alternative to traditional Ti:sapphire lasers. Photonic crystal fibers enable wavelength tuning for selective cellular imaging.
Area of Science:
- Biophotonics
- Microscopy
- Laser Technology
Background:
- Two-photon scanning fluorescence microscopy is vital for live cell and tissue imaging.
- Current methods often rely on bulky, non-tunable Ti:sapphire lasers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate two-photon fiber laser excitation (TP-FLEX) as a tunable source for scanning microscopy.
- To demonstrate wavelength tuning using photonic crystal fibers (PCF).
Main Methods:
- Utilized a TP-FLEX system coupled with PCF for wavelength tuning.
- Acquired two-photon fluorescence images across a range of excitation wavelengths (850-1100 nm).
- Demonstrated selective excitation of BODIPY fl at 1000 nm and MitoTracker red at 1100 nm.
Main Results:
- Successfully generated two-photon fluorescence images using the TP-FLEX system.
- Achieved facile wavelength tuning from 810 nm to 1100 nm with PCF.
- Showcased selective dye excitation by adjusting the excitation wavelength.
Conclusions:
- TP-FLEX combined with PCF offers a promising, tunable excitation source for two-photon scanning fluorescence microscopy.
- This approach provides a more portable and adaptable alternative to existing laser systems.
- Enables precise control over fluorophore excitation for advanced biological imaging.
