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Imaging Biological Samples with Optical Microscopy

Imaging Biological Samples with Optical Microscopy

Optical microscopy uses optic principles to provide detailed images of samples. Antonie van Leeuwenhoek designed the first compound optical microscope in the 17th century to visualize blood cells, bacteria, and yeast cells. In 1830, Joseph Jackson Lister created an essentially modern light microscope. The 20th century saw the development of microscopes with enhanced magnification and resolution.
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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jan 2, 2026

Transient Optical Clearing Using Absorbing Molecules for Ex Vivo and In Vivo Imaging

Transient Optical Clearing Using Absorbing Molecules for Ex Vivo and In Vivo Imaging

Published on: July 11, 2025

Translational optical imaging.

Adrian Taruttis¹, Vasilis Ntziachristos

¹Institute for Biological and Medical Imaging, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Ingolstädter Landstrasse 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.

AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology

|July 25, 2012

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Optical imaging advances offer new tools for biomedical research and clinical applications. These techniques visualize biologic processes, improving disease diagnosis and treatment efficacy.

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Area of Science:

Biomedical Optics
Medical Imaging Technologies
Translational Science

Background:

Significant technological advancements are occurring in optical imaging.
Novel optical imaging agents are emerging for research and clinical use.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the translation of macroscopic optical imaging techniques.
To highlight applications in various medical fields.

Main Methods:

Fluorescence-guided surgery and endoscopy
Intravascular fluorescence imaging
Diffuse fluorescence and optical tomography
Multispectral optoacoustics (photoacoustics)

Main Results:

Progress in translating advanced optical imaging modalities.
Demonstrated applications in tumor resection, atherosclerosis assessment, and dermatologic/breast examinations.

Conclusions:

Optical imaging facilitates a shift from structural to functional visualization of disease.
This advancement promises more accurate diagnostics and enhanced treatment outcomes.