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Updated: May 30, 2026
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Single Molecule Fluorescence Microscopy on Planar Supported Bilayers
Published on: October 31, 2015
Hybrid photodetector for single-molecule spectroscopy and microscopy
X Michalet1, Adrian Cheng, Joshua Antelman
1Dept. of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of California at Los Angeles, 607 Charles E Young Drive E, Los Angeles, CA 90095.
Summary
A new single-photon detector offers superior performance for fluorescence correlation spectroscopy and lifetime measurements. Its advanced design eliminates after-pulsing and provides excellent time resolution, simplifying complex experiments.
Area of Science:
- Photonics and advanced optical detection technologies.
Background:
- Standard Geiger-mode avalanche photodiodes have limitations in certain sensitive measurements.
- Advancements in detector technology are crucial for improving single-molecule fluorescence applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To benchmark a novel single-photon counting detector featuring a GaAsP photocathode and an electron-bombarded avalanche photodiode.
- To compare its performance against conventional Geiger-mode avalanche photodiodes.
Main Methods:
- Performance evaluation through benchmark testing of the new detector.
- Comparative analysis against standard avalanche photodiodes.
Main Results:
- The new detector exhibits no after-pulsing, beneficial for Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy (FCS).
- Demonstrates excellent time resolution, advantageous for fluorescence lifetime measurements.
- Features a large sensitive area simplifying optical setup alignment.
Conclusions:
- The novel detector is a valuable tool for single-molecule fluorescence measurements and other applications.
- Its performance characteristics make it suitable for advanced spectroscopy and imaging.
