Live Cell Imaging

Cell biologists are increasingly using live-cell imaging techniques to provide clues into the fundamental nature of cellular and tissue structure and function. These investigations are being aided by the explosive rate of developments in fluorescent protein, quantum dot, and synthetic fluorophore technology. A number of technical challenges must be overcome in order to perform successful live-cell imaging experiments, including the ability to maintain cells in a healthy state on the microscope stage for extended periods of time. New developments in instrumentation (microscope systems, cameras, filter technology, and illumination devices) have enabled imaging of a variety of dynamic events with high spatial and temporal resolution over a wide range of time scales.