Editorial
Copyright ©2011 Baishideng Publishing Group Co., Limited. All rights reserved.
World J Gastroenterol. Oct 28, 2011; 17(40): 4456-4460
Published online Oct 28, 2011. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v17.i40.4456
Multiphoton microscopy: An introduction to gastroenterologists
Hye Jin Cho, Hoon Jai Chun, Eun Sun Kim, Bong Rae Cho
Hye Jin Cho, Hoon Jai Chun, Eun Sun Kim, Institute of Digestive Disease and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, 136-705 Seoul, South Korea
Bong Rae Cho, Department of Chemistry, Korea University, 136-705 Seoul, South Korea
Author contributions: Cho HJ, Chun HJ, Kim ES designed research and performed research; Cho BR contributed new reagents; Cho HJ analyzed data and wrote the paper.
Correspondence to: Hoon Jai Chun, MD, PhD, AGAF, Professor, Institute of Digestive Disease and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, 136-705 Seoul, South Korea. drchunhj@chol.com
Telephone: +82-2-9206555 Fax: +82-2-9531943
Received: November 24, 2010
Revised: March 2, 2011
Accepted: March 9, 2011
Published online: October 28, 2011
Abstract

Multiphoton microscopy, relying on the simultaneous absorption of two or more photons by a fluorophore, has come to occupy a prominent place in modern biomedical research with its ability to allow real-time observation of a single cell and molecules in intact tissues. Multiphoton microscopy exhibits nonlinear optical contrast properties, which can make it possible to provide an exceptionally large depth penetration with less phototoxicity. This system becomes more and more an inspiring tool for a non-invasive imaging system to realize “optical biopsy” and to examine the functions of living cells. In this review, we briefly present the physical principles and properties of multiphoton microscopy as well as the current applications in biological fields. In addition, we address what we see as the future potential of multiphoton microscopy for gastroenterologic research.

Keywords: Multiphoton microscopy; Optical biopsy; Gastrointestinal disease