Stimulated Raman
Scattering microscopy is an important imaging
technique. Its broader application, however, is hampered by its comparatively
low sensitivity. Using organic fluorophores, it has recently been
demonstrated that, similar to spontaneous Raman microscopy, the sensitivity
of stimulated Raman microscopy is increased by orders of magnitudes
if electronic preresonances are exploited. In this Article, we show
that this approach also works with low quantum yield chromophores.
We investigate the relevant photophysics and discuss the background
arising from preresonant excitation conditions. Applications of preresonant
stimulated Raman scattering microscopy for the imaging of weakly fluorescing
labels in fixed and live cells are demonstrated.
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