Epi-detecting label-free multimodal imaging platform using a compact diode-pumped femtosecond solid-state laser

Abstract

© The Authors. Published by SPIE under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License. Distribution or reproduction of this work in whole or in part requires full attribution of the original publication, including its DOI. We have developed an epi-detected multimodal nonlinear optical microscopy platform based on a compact and cost-effective laser source featuring simultaneous acquisition of signals arising from hyperspectral coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS), two-photon fluorescence, and second harmonic generation. The laser source is based on an approach using a frequency-doubled distributed Bragg reflector-tapered diode laser to pump a femtosecond Ti:sapphire laser. The operational parameters of the laser source are set to the optimum trade-off between the spectral and temporal requirements for these three modalities, achieving sufficient spectral resolution for CARS in the lipid region. The experimental results on a biological tissue reveal that the combination of the epi-detection scheme and the use of a compact diode-pumped femtosecond solid-state laser in the nonlinear optical microscope is promising for biomedical applications in a clinical environment.