Transmitted Light Microscopy

Transmitted light is used to view stained specimens by illuminating the section from underneath with light passing through to the eye. Two light microscopy techniques routinely used are Brightfield and Polarised Light which highlight different features within the specimens:

Image of a tissue section viewed using brightfield light.

Image of a tissue section viewed using polarised light.

Fluorescence Microscopy

Fluorescence is the property of some substances which, when illuminated by light of a certain wavelength, will re-emit the light at a longer wavelength.

Dyes and chemicals added to tissues to produce fluorescence are called fluorochromes.

Image showing calcein and tetracycline labelling of calcification fronts.

Image showing notch 4 staining of mid and superficial zone chondrocytes in cartilage.