Super-resolution differential interference contrast microscopy by structured illumination

Opt Express. 2013 Jan 14;21(1):112-21. doi: 10.1364/OE.21.000112.

Abstract

We propose a structured illumination differential interference contrast (SI-DIC) microscopy, breaking the diffraction resolution limit of differential interference contrast (DIC) microscopy. SI-DIC extends the bandwidth of coherent transfer function of the DIC imaging system, thus the resolution is improved. With 0.8 numerical aperture condenser and objective, the reconstructed SI-DIC image of 53 nm polystyrene beads reveals lateral resolution of approximately 190 nm, doubling that of the conventional DIC image. We also demonstrate biological observations of label-free cells with improved spatial resolution. The SI-DIC microscopy can provide sub-diffraction resolution and high contrast images with marker-free specimens, and has the potential for achieving sub-diffraction resolution quantitative phase imaging.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anisotropy
  • Contrast Media / chemistry
  • Equipment Design
  • Fourier Analysis
  • Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells
  • Humans
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / methods*
  • Light
  • Lighting
  • Microscopy / methods
  • Microscopy, Interference / instrumentation
  • Microscopy, Interference / methods*
  • Models, Statistical
  • Polystyrenes / chemistry

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Polystyrenes