Quantitative coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering microspectroscopy using a nanosecond supercontinuum light source

Abstract

We describe and characterize a multiplex CARS microspectroscopic system that uses a nanosecond supercontinuum generated from a photonic crystal fiber and a sub-nanosecond pulse laser. This system has a high spectral resolution (<0.1 cm (1)) and an ultrabroadband spectral coverage (>2500 cm (1)). The estimated spatial resolutions are 0.45 mu m (lateral) and 4.5 mu m (axial), respectively. This system enables us to obtain CARS spectra and corresponding images in the fingerprint region as well in the CH stretch region. Using this system, we have successfully obtained label-free and multi-mode vibrational images of a yeast cell. (C) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.