Nonlinear microscopy encompasses a range of advanced imaging techniques that rely on nonlinear interactions between light and matter, including two-photon excitation and second harmonic generation (SHG):

Two-photon microscopy uses the simultaneous absorption of two low-energy photons to excite fluorophores, allowing for deeper tissue penetration, reduced photobleaching, and confined 3D excitation.

SHG microscopy is a label-free technique that visualizes non-centrosymmetric structures like collagen fibers by detecting frequency-doubled light. It is entirely non-invasive and requires no staining.

This workshop is articulated in two parts: A general introduction in the morning followed by hands-on sessions in two groups.

General introduction (9:00-11:00, at the D-BSSE room D65.2)

General introduction to 2-photon microscopy and Second Harmonic Generation, alternative approach for better channel separation using spectral unmixing and resolution improvement due to the Airy scan detector.
Please note that for the general introduction, registration is not required.

Hands-on sessions (11:10-12:30 & 13:30-15:00)

In the hands-on sessions, participants will learn how to set up a 2-photon experiment on a 3D sample (i.e. organoids, tissues) with multicolor staining and to compare the imaging with a standard single photon acquisition.
For participation in the hands-on session, registration is required, and the presence in the morning introduction session is mandatory.

Registration with a professional email address is mandatory (e.g., @unibas.ch, @fmi.ch, @iob.ch, @psi.ch, @ethz.ch, @bsse.ethz.ch).

The hands-on sessions are free of charge; however, a no-show fee of 50 CHF will apply if you do not cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

We kindly ask that you attend the full hands-on session if you register.

Nonlinear Imaging: 2PE and SHG