Scanning Microscopy
3-Dimensional Imaging of Biological Structures by High Resolution Confocal Scanning Laser Microscopy
Abstract
Imaging in confocal microscopy is characterized by the ability to make a selective image of just one plane inside a specimen, virtually unaffected -within certain limits-by the out-of-focus regions above and below it. This property, called optical sectioning, is accompanied by improved imaging transverse to the optical axis. We have coupled a confocal microscope to a computer system, making the combination of both an excellent instrument for mapping the 3-dimensional structure of extended specimens into a computer memory/data array. We measured that the volume element contributing to each data point has, under typical fluorescence conditions, a size of 0.2 x 0.2 x 0.72 μm. The data can be analysed and represented in various ways, i.e., stereoscopical views from any desired angle. After a description of the experimental arrangement, we show various examples of biological and food-structural studies. The microscope can be operated either in reflection or in fluorescence. In the latter mode a spectral element allows selection of the wavelength band of fluorescence light contributing to the image. In this way, we can distinguish various structures inside the cell and study their 3-dimensional relationships. Various applications in biology and the study of food structure are presented.
Recommended Citation
Brakenhoff, G. J.; van der Voort, H. T. M.; van Spronsen, E. A.; and Nanninga, N.
(1987)
"3-Dimensional Imaging of Biological Structures by High Resolution Confocal Scanning Laser Microscopy,"
Scanning Microscopy: Vol. 2:
No.
1, Article 4.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/microscopy/vol2/iss1/4