Mid-infrared Photothermal Imaging: Instrument and Life Science Applications
Xinyan Teng, Mingsheng Li, Hongjian He, Danchen Jia, Jiaze Yin, Rylie Bolarinho, Ji‐Xin Cheng
Abstract
Recently developed mid-infrared photothermal (MIP) microscopy has attracted great attention from the research community in terms of video-rate imaging speed, sub-micron resolution, sensitivity in the range of several micro-molars, and suitability for live-cell analysis. In this review, we recount the developmental history of MIP microscopy. Subsequently, we describe the operational principles. Next, we delve into the wide-ranging applications of MIP microscopy to life sciences, spanning various samples from viruses to tissues. We explore the potential of MIP imaging in comprehension of cellular metabolism, cellular responses to chemical stimuli, and the mechanism of diseases. Finally, we discuss the future perspectives of MIP microscopy.