Live imaging of skin immunity using two-photon microscopy: a short review

Comprehensive Summary

This article discusses the potential of two-photon microscopy as a method of analyzing dermatologic abnormalities while still in the living tissue, to observe interactions with the surrounding skin and immune responses. Previously depended upon methods, such as confocal laser scanning microscopy and fluorescence microscopy, restricted both the duration and depth of observation, limiting diagnostic capability. This method of imaging allows deeper tissue penetration, due to the longer-wavelength lasers, and reduction of noise including background fluorescence, photobleaching, and phototoxicity. The result of this is enhanced image quality and improved biological safety in screening abnormalities.

Outcomes and Implications

Live imaging shows promise for analyzing dynamic immune responses in the skin, as the method allows for analysis of abnormalities while within living tissue. This would allow for researchers to record the speed and methods with which the immune system approaches abnormalities, to better understand how the abnormality will progress. Egawa notes that current implementation of two-photon microscopy into clinical practice is unrealistic due to high cost of equipment and equipment safety concerns.