In vivo imaging of cellular structures and processes in Caenorhabditis elegans, using non-linear microscopy

We present the detailed imaging of structures and processes of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) using non-linear microscopy (TPEF-SHG-THG). Consummative and specific information about the anatomy of the nematode was collected by implementing a combination of THG, SHG and TPEF image contrast modalities on the same microscope. Additionally, 3-D reconstruction of TPEF and THG images was performed in order to achieve the three dimensional delineation of the outline, and specific cell types (neurons) of the worm. Moreover, THG imaging has been proved to be a very useful, non-destructive diagnostic tool for monitoring cellular processes in vivo (neuronal degeneration).