Why Are Lasers Important in Fluorescence Microscopy?
Lasers serve as the excitation source in fluorescence microscopy. They provide the specific wavelengths of light required to excite fluorescent dyes or proteins within the tissue samples. The emitted fluorescence is then detected to generate images. The precision and intensity of laser light offer significant advantages over traditional light sources, including improved signal-to-noise ratio and the ability to perform fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM).