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Simultaneous Label-Free Autofluorescence Multi-Harmonic Microscopy
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Third harmonic generation microscopy of cells and tissue organization
Bettina Weigelin1, Gert-Jan Bakker1, Peter Friedl2
1Department of Cell Biology, RIMLS, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands.
Journal of Cell Science
|January 9, 2016
Summary
Third harmonic generation (THG) microscopy offers label-free imaging of cellular structures. This technique enhances understanding of tissue morphogenesis, immune cell function, and cancer research.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Cell Biology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Cellular interactions within the microenvironment are crucial for tissue development and function.
- Third harmonic generation (THG) microscopy provides label-free imaging of cellular and extracellular structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the physical and technical principles of THG microscopy.
- To discuss optimal methods for THG signal acquisition and interpretation.
- To highlight diverse applications of THG in life sciences research.
Main Methods:
- Review of THG microscopy principles and applications.
- Discussion of excitation, detection, and signal interpretation strategies.
- Exploration of THG's role in various research areas.
Main Results:
- THG microscopy visualizes water-lipid and water-protein interfaces, including membranes and extracellular matrix.
- It serves as a versatile contrast modality complementing other microscopy techniques.
- THG enables label-free detection of cellular functions in 3D cultures and small animals.
Conclusions:
- THG microscopy is a powerful tool for label-free imaging in cell and tissue research.
- Its applications span tissue morphogenesis, homeostasis, immune cell function, and cancer research.
- Emerging clinical applications of THG show significant promise.
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