Introduction to Modern Methods in Light Microscopy

Methods Mol Biol. 2017:1563:1-15. doi: 10.1007/978-1-4939-6810-7_1.

Abstract

For centuries, light microscopy has been a key method in biological research, from the early work of Robert Hooke describing biological organisms as cells, to the latest in live-cell and single-molecule systems. Here, we introduce some of the key concepts related to the development and implementation of modern microscopy techniques. We briefly discuss the basics of optics in the microscope, super-resolution imaging, quantitative image analysis, live-cell imaging, and provide an outlook on active research areas pertaining to light microscopy.

Keywords: Image analysis; Live-cell; Microscopy; Super-resolution; Technology.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Microscopy / classification
  • Microscopy / instrumentation
  • Microscopy / methods*
  • Microscopy / standards
  • Optics and Photonics