Polarization microscopy in medical and biological research
REVIEWS
Abstract
Polarization microscopy is a highly informative optical analysis method intended for the visualization of structures in biological tissues and fluids characterized by molecular ordering and optical anisotropy. Unlike conventional light microscopy, which primarily records changes in the intensity and spectral composition of transmitted light, polarization microscopy makes it possible to detect changes in the polarization state of the light wave resulting from its interaction with the specimen. The article discusses the physical basis of birefringence, the design and operating principles of the polarization microscope, the use of compensators, and the conditions required for correct interpretation of the resulting images. The main applications of the method in clinical and experimental medicine are summarized, including the detection of amyloid deposits in tissues after Congo red staining, assessment of collagen matrix organization, differential diagnosis of crystal arthropathies based on the characteristics of crystals in synovial fluid, examination of muscle tissue, and crystalloscopic analysis of dried blood serum. The limitations of the method related to sample preparation, specimen thickness and orientation, adjustment of the optical system, the possible presence of birefringent artifacts, and the dependence of the results on observer experience are emphasized. Current trends in the development of polarization microscopy are also considered, including quantitative polarimetry, LC-Pol Scope, polychromatic polarization microscopy, integration with Raman spectroscopy, multimodal imaging, and machine learning algorithms. These approaches expand the possibilities for objective quantitative assessment of optically anisotropic structures and for improving diagnostic protocols.
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