Contrast-tuneable microscopy for single-shot real-time imaging

A novel real image in-line laser holography enables a tuneable image contrast, edge sharpness, and visualization of sub-wavelength structures, using a simple pair of filters and large-diameter lenses that can incorporate higher-order scattered light. Demonstrated also are the accuracy in object sizing and the ease of imaging along the focal depth, based on a single-shot imaging via holographic principle. In addition, the use of broad, collimated laser beam for irradiation has led to a wider field of view, making it particularly useful for an extensive monitoring of, and sweeping search for, cells and microbial colonies and for the real-time imaging of cancer-cell dynamics.