The essentials of light microscopy

Abstract

Light microscopy is an indispensible tool in the cytogenetics laboratory, both for routine analysis and for techniques such as fl uorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Modern tools, such as digital imaging and advances in image analysis, have aided the microscopist in drawing conclusions from microscope images. A clear understanding of optical systems and the trade-offs involved in imaging is essential to maximizing the quality of such images. This chapter covers the basic principles and applications of the light microscope, including bright fi eld and contrasting techniques, and an introduction to the fl uorescence microscope.