Advanced Photonics, Volume. 7, Issue 3, (2025)

Breaking the Diffraction Limit in Molecular Imaging by Structured Illumination Mid-Infrared Photothermal Microscopy [Early Posting]

Fu Pengcheng, Chen Bo, Zhang Yongqing, Chen Liangyi, Lee Hyeon Jeong, Zhang Delong
Author Affiliations
  • Zhejiang University
  • Jiangcun Street, Xihu District
  • China
  • show less

    Super-resolution microscopy techniques have revolutionized biological imaging by breaking the optical diffraction limit, yet most methods rely on fluorescent labels that provide limited chemical information. While vibrational imaging based on Raman and infrared (IR) spectroscopy offers intrinsic molecular contrast, achieving both high spatial resolution and high chemical specificity remains challenging due to weak signal levels. Here, we demonstrate structured illumination mid-infrared photothermal (SIMIP) microscopy as an emerging imaging platform that provides chemical bond selectivity and high-speed, widefield detection beyond the diffraction limit. By modulating fluorescence quantum yield through vibrational infrared absorption, SIMIP enables both nanoscale spatial resolution and high-fidelity IR spectral acquisition. The synergy of enhanced resolution and chemical specificity positions SIMIP as a versatile tool for studying complex biological systems and advanced materials, offering new opportunities across biomedicine and materials science.

    Paper Information

    Manuscript Accepted: Jan. 21, 2025

    Posted: Mar. 10, 2025

    DOI: AP