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Autofluorescence of living cells
H Andersson1, T Baechi, M Hoechl
1Institute for Medical Radiobiology, University of Zurich, Switzerland.
Journal of Microscopy
|September 2, 1998
Summary
Autofluorescence in mammalian cells originates from both mitochondria and lysosomes. While mitochondrial signals are modifiable, lysosomal autofluorescence is more resistant to change, impacting cellular imaging.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Microscopy
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Cellular autofluorescence, particularly from mitochondria and lysosomes, can complicate imaging.
- Understanding the sources and characteristics of autofluorescence is crucial for accurate cellular analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the origin and modulation of mammalian cell autofluorescence in mitochondria and lysosomes.
- To enhance confocal laser scanning microscopy image quality using deconvolution techniques.
Main Methods:
- Utilized confocal laser scanning microscopy with a UV laser.
- Applied various reagents to treat DU-145 and V79 mammalian cell lines.
- Employed deconvolution algorithms to improve image resolution.
Main Results:
- Autofluorescence is not exclusively localized to mitochondria; lysosomes are also significant contributors.
- Mitochondrial autofluorescence signals can be substantially altered through specific treatments.
- Lysosomal autofluorescence is less susceptible to modification compared to mitochondrial signals.
- Deconvoluted images demonstrated superior clarity and information content over undeconvoluted images.
Conclusions:
- Mammalian cell autofluorescence involves multiple organelles, notably mitochondria and lysosomes.
- Differential susceptibility of mitochondrial and lysosomal autofluorescence to treatments was observed.
- Image deconvolution significantly enhances the diagnostic value of autofluorescence microscopy.