Multi-Color Two-Photon Microscopic Imaging Based on a Single-Wavelength Excitation

Two-photon probes with broad absorption spectra are beneficial for multi-color two-photon microscopy imaging, which is one of the most powerful tools to study the dynamic processes of living cells. To achieve multi-color two-photon imaging, multiple lasers and detectors are usually required for excitation and signal collection, respectively. However, one makes the imaging system more complicated and costly. Here, we demonstrate a multi-color two-photon imaging method with a single-wavelength excitation by using a signal separation strategy. The method can effectively solve the problem of spectral crosstalk by selecting a suitable filter combination and applying image subtraction. The experimental results show that the two-color and three-color two-photon imaging are achieved with a single femtosecond laser. Furthermore, this method can also be combined with multi-photon imaging technology to reveal more information and interaction in thick biological tissues.

Automated summary

This study demonstrates a multi-color two-photon imaging method with single-wavelength excitation. The problem of spectral crosstalk is effectively solved by selecting suitable filter combinations and applying image subtraction. The results show that two-color and three-color two-photon imaging can be achieved using a single femtosecond laser.