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Updated: Nov 8, 2025

Fluorescence Lifetime Macro Imager for Biomedical Applications
Published on: April 7, 2023
Fluorescence lifetime-based sensing and imaging
Henryk Szmacinski1, Joseph R Lakowicz1
1Center of Fluorescence Spectroscopy, Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Maryland, School of Medicine, 108 N. Greene St., Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
Time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy offers a powerful method for chemical sensing, providing quantitative analysis independent of probe intensity. This technique enables the detection of various analytes and has potential applications in clinical and environmental settings.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Biophysics
- Chemical Physics
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy is primarily a research tool.
- Intensity-based sensing methods have limitations.
- Lifetime-based sensing offers advantages for quantitative analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the potential of time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy for chemical sensing.
- To discuss the advantages of lifetime-based sensing over intensity-based methods.
- To explore applications in various fields.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing the collisional quenching mechanism for analyte detection (e.g., oxygen, halides).
- Developing lifetime probes for analyte recognition (e.g., Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, pH).
- Employing phase-modulation instrumentation and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM).
Main Results:
- Lifetime-based sensing is independent of total probe intensity, enabling quantitative measurements.
- The method allows for the detection of analytes without direct probes, such as glucose.
- FLIM provides chemical imaging capabilities within microscopy.
Conclusions:
- Time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy is a versatile tool for chemical sensing with broad applicability.
- Advancements in instrumentation and probes facilitate migration to clinical, environmental, and industrial applications.
- Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy offers new possibilities for chemical imaging in biological systems.
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