# Uses of coherent Raman scattering microscopy in neuroscience

## TL;DR

This paper reviews how coherent Raman scattering microscopy can be used to image brain tissues with molecular-level detail, offering new insights in neuroscience.

## Contribution

The paper introduces the use of CRS with Raman-active bio-orthogonal bonds for imaging molecules undetectable by fluorescence.

## Key findings

- CRS enables molecular vibration-dependent contrast imaging in brain tissues.
- CRS combined with bio-orthogonal bonds allows visualization of non-fluorescent molecules.
- CRS is a promising tool for pathophysiological investigations in neuroscience.

## Abstract

Multiphoton microscopy allows the imaging of biological phenomena deep within brain tissues and has greatly advanced knowledge in neuroscience. However, many optical phenomena other than the multiphoton excitation of fluorophores in nonlinear optics are underrecognized. Coherent Raman scattering (CRS) uses multiple photons to boost weak Raman scattering. CRS has been used to enable molecular vibration-dependent contrast imaging of tissues and has been particularly useful for pathophysiological investigations of brain tissues. Recently, the combination of CRS with Raman-active bio-orthogonal chemical bonds or groups has proven particularly powerful for visualizing molecules not detectable by fluorescence imaging. This review introduces a new and exciting imaging strategy and its applications in neuroscience.