Automated control of optical polarization for nonlinear microscopy

Craig Brideau; Peter K. Stys

doi:10.1117/12.908995

9 February 2012 Automated control of optical polarization for nonlinear microscopy

Craig Brideau, Peter K. Stys

Proceedings Volume 8226, Multiphoton Microscopy in the Biomedical Sciences XII; 82263A (2012) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.908995
Event: SPIE BiOS, 2012, San Francisco, California, United States

Abstract

Laser-scanning non-linear optical techniques such as multi-photon fluorescence excitation microscopy (MPM), Second/ Third Harmonic Generation (SHG/THG), and Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman Scattering (CARS) are being utilized in research laboratories worldwide. The efficiencies of these non-linear effects are dependent on the polarization state of the excitation light relative to the orientation of the sample being imaged. In highly ordered anisotropic biological samples this effect can become pronounced and the excitation polarization can have a dramatic impact on imaging experiments. Therefore, controlling the polarization state of the exciting light is important; however this is challenging when the excitation light passes through a complex optical system. In a typical laser-scanning microscope, components such as the dichroic filters, lenses, and even mirrors can alter the polarization state of a laser beam before it reaches the sample. We present an opto-mechanical solution to compensate for the polarization effects of an optical path, and to precisely program the polarization state of the exciting laser light. The device and accompanying procedures allow the delivery of precise laser polarization states at constant average power levels to a sample during an imaging experiment.

Citation Download Citation

Craig Brideau and Peter K. Stys "Automated control of optical polarization for nonlinear microscopy", Proc. SPIE 8226, Multiphoton Microscopy in the Biomedical Sciences XII, 82263A (9 February 2012); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.908995

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