Confocal Microscopy, continued

In confocal microscopy, the depth of the field is 0.5-1.5 micrometers.  This shallow depth allows for a clear and well defined optical section rather then an entire specimen, as seen in a conventional light microscope.  The confocal consists of a laser light source, an illuminating pinhole through which the laser passes into the specimen, photodetectors which collect the fluorescent light, and an iris. 

3D images can be produced when a stack of optical sections are taken at successive focal planes of the same specimen.  This is known as a ZSeries, and it can provide an interesting and informative 3D view of a cell. 

3D imaging is one of several confocal techniques.  We utilized Single Label Imaging to produce one optical section.  This is useful in that out-of-focus glare is greatly reduced; thus, a clear image with good contrast can be obtained.