Fluorescence-lifetime imaging microscopy method having time-correlated single-photon counting

US11086119B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• LEICA MICROSYSTEMS CMS GMBH · DE

Inventors

• Frank Hecht · Weimar, DE
• Bernd Widzgowski · Dossenheim, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 18, 2018
• Grant date: Aug 10, 2021
• Expiry date: Dec 18, 2038

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G01N2201/126
• WIPO field: Measurement
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A fluorescence-lifetime imaging microscopy method with time-correlated single-photon counting includes using excitation light pulses separated in each case by a measurement interval to excite a sample to emit fluorescence photons. A detector signal that represents the captured fluorescence photons is generated. Detection times are determined based on the detector signal. Imaging is performed based on the detection times. The detection times of all captured fluorescence photons are compiled in a first data memory, common to a plurality of image pixels. The detection times of only those fluorescence photons which were captured in a predetermined number within the respective measurement intervals are compiled in a second data memory, common to the same plurality of image pixels. The detection times compiled in the data memories are combined within a calculation step. The results of the calculation step are stored in a third data memory.