We propose a new method for three-dimensional fluorescence imaging without depth scanning that we refer to as the
dual detection confocal fluorescence microscopy (DDCFM). Compared to conventional beam-scanning confocal
fluorescence microscopy, where the focal spot must be scanned either optically or mechanically to collect a three-dimensional
images, DDCFM is able to obtain depth information without depth scanning. DDCFM utilizes two photo
multiplier tubes (PMTs) in the confocal detection system. The emitted fluorescence is divided by the beam splitter and
received by the two PMTs through pinholes with different size. Each PMT signal generates different axial response
curve according to the pinhole diameter, which decides stiffness of the curve. Since the PMT signal is determined by the
intensity of the fluorescent emitter and the distance from the focal point, we can acquire depth position of a fluorescent
emitter by comparing two intensity signals from the PMTs. Since the depth information can be obtained by a single
excitation without depth scanning, DDCFM has many advantages. The measurement time is dramatically reduced for
volume imaging. Also, photo-bleaching and photo-toxicity can be minimized. The system can be easily miniaturized
because no mechanical depth scan is needed. Here, we demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method by phantom
study using fluorescent beads.
The multi-color, or spectral fluorescence microscopy has ability to detect fluorescence spectral signals which are useful
in case of studying interactions and phenomena between biological samples. Recently, commercial devices are
combining with confocal microscope so to enhance lateral resolution and to have axial direction discernment. Also
Acousto-Optic Tunable Filter(AOTF) is used instead of dichroic mirror to divide excitation and emission signals with
mininum light efficiency. In addition, AOTF is used in spectral fluorescence microscopy have many advantages, these
are very fast switching speed and high resolution in wavelength selection. However it uses acousto-optic interactions in
birefringence material, Tellurium Dioxide(TeO2), the excitation light interacts with appropriate acoustic signal so that it
is diffracted to 1 or -1 order path. But the fluorescence signals from a sample propagate in 0 order path with small
different angle according to the polarization state. In this paper, a confocal-spectral microscopy is proposed with the new
kind of spectral detector design having wavelength scanning galvano mirror. It makes possible to detect broad
wavelength fluorescence signal by single PMT with simply rotating the galvano mirror. Also a new birefringent material,
calcite(CaCO3) is used to compensate polarization effect. The proposed spectral confocal microscopy with unique
spectrometer body has many advantages in comparison with commercial devices. In terms of detection method, it can be
easily applied to other imaging modalities. Hence this system will be adapted in many applications.
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