An in-depth understanding of cell functions and behaviors requires the ability to visualize and control biological processes in living cells. Optical imaging techniques have seen remarkable advancements over the past several decades, allowing scientists to achieve high-resolution mapping of physical and chemical properties within biological systems. Coherent Raman scattering (CRS) microscopy, in particular, stands out for its capability to image chemical compositions such as lipids within biological environments. The first part of this talk will focus on the recent technological advancements and biological discoveries made by my research group using CRS and fluorescence microscopy.
Beyond imaging, our research has pioneered the development of real-time precision opto-control (RPOC), a cutting-edge technology designed to precisely manipulate biological processes with high spatial and temporal accuracy. RPOC represents a significant advancement in optical control, offering unmatched levels of precision, speed, selectivity, and adaptability. This technology enables a wide array of capabilities, including the targeted generation of reactive oxygen species, drug activation within specific cellular compartments, precise photo-uncaging, regulation of cell division and survival, and the selective elimination of unwanted cells in a population. In the second part of this presentation, I will delve into the history, underlying principles, and recent advancements of RPOC technology, illustrating its applications in biological and medical research through various examples.