Visualizing intra-medulla lipids in human hair using ultra-multiplex CARS, SHG, and THG microscopy

Analyst. 2021 Feb 21;146(4):1163-1168. doi: 10.1039/d0an01880e. Epub 2021 Jan 5.

Abstract

We performed label-free imaging of human-hair medulla using multi-modal nonlinear optical microscopy. Intra-medulla lipids (IMLs) were clearly visualized by ultra-multiplex coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) spectroscopic imaging. Two groups of IMLs were found: second harmonic generation (SHG) active and inactive. By combining SHG analysis with CARS, the two groups were identified as free fatty acids and wax esters, respectively.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Lipids
  • Microscopy*
  • Spectrum Analysis, Raman*

Substances

  • Lipids