The key element of any fluorescence sensing or imaging technology is the fluorescence reporter, which transforms the information on molecular interactions and dynamics into measurable signals of fluorescence emission. This book, written by a team of frontline researchers, demonstrates the broad field of applications of fluorescence reporters, starting from nanoscopic properties of materials, such as self-assembled thin films, polymers and ionic liquids, through biological macromolecules and further to living cell, tissue and body imaging. Basic information on obtaining and interpreting experimental data is presented and recent progress in these practically important areas is highlighted. The book is addressed to a broad interdisciplinary audience.

With contributions by numerous experts

This volume focuses on Time-Correlated Single Photon Counting (TCSPC), a powerful tool allowing luminescence lifetime measurements to be made with high temporal resolution, even on single molecules. Combining spectrum and lifetime provides a “fingerprint” for identifying such molecules in the presence of a background. Used together with confocal detection, this permits single-molecule spectroscopy and microscopy in addition to ensemble measurements, opening up an enormous range of hot life science applications such as fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) and measurement of Förster Resonant Energy Transfer (FRET) for the investigation of protein folding and interaction. Several technology-related chapters present both the basics and current state-of-the-art, in particular of TCSPC electronics, photon detectors and lasers. The remaining chapters cover a broad range of applications and methodologies for experiments and data analysis, including the life sciences, defect centers in diamonds, super-resolution microscopy, and optical tomography. The chapters detailing new options arising from the combination of classic TCSPC and fluorescence lifetime with methods based on intensity fluctuation represent a particularly unique highlight.

This book provides the reader with an updated comprehensive view of the rapidly developing and fascinating field of fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy. In recent years, fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy have experienced rapid technological development, which has enabled the detection and monitoring of single molecules with high spatial and temporal resolution. Thanks to these developments, fluorescence has become an even more popular method in physical, biological and related fields. This book guides the reader through both basic and advanced fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy approaches with a focus on their applications in membrane and protein biophysics. Each of the four parts: A - Fluorescence Spectroscopy, B - Fluorescence Microscopy, C - Applications of Fluorescence Spectroscopy and Microscopy to biological membranes and D - Applications of Fluorescence Spectroscopy to protein studies are written by experts within the field. The book is intended for both complete beginners who want to quickly orient themselves in the large number of existing fluorescent methods, as well as for advanced readers who are interested in particular methods and their proper use.

Biological membranes play a central role in cell structure, shape and functions. However, investigating the membrane bilayer has proved to be difficult due to its highly dynamic and anisotropic structure, which generates steep gradients at the nanometer scale. Due to the decisive impact of recently developed fluorescence-based techniques, tremendous advances have been made in the last few years in our understanding of membrane characteristics and functions. In this context, the present book illustrates some of these major advances by collecting review articles written by highly respected experts. The book is organized in three parts, the first of which deals with membrane probes and model membranes. The second part describes the use of advanced quantitative and high-resolution techniques to explore the properties of biological membranes, illustrating the key progress made regarding membrane organization, dynamics and interactions. The third part is focused on the investigation of membrane proteins using the same techniques, and notably on the membrane receptors that play a central role in signaling pathways and therapeutic strategies. All chapters provide comprehensive information on membranes and their exploration for beginners in the field and advanced researchers alike.

This second edition of the well-established bestseller is completely updated and revised with approximately 30 % additional material, including two new chapters on applications, which has seen the most significant developments. The comprehensive overview written at an introductory level covers fundamental aspects, principles of instrumentation and practical applications, while providing many valuable tips. For photochemists and photophysicists, physical chemists, molecular physicists, biophysicists, biochemists and biologists, lecturers and students of chemistry, physics, and biology.

This book gathers 12 outstanding contributions that reflect state-of-the-art industrial applications of fluorescence, ranging from the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries to explosives detection, aeronautics, instrumentation development, lighting, photovoltaics, water treatment and much more. In the field of fluorescence, the translation of research into important applications has expanded significantly over the past few decades. The 18th volume in the Springer Series on Fluorescence fills an important gap by focusing on selected industrial applications of fluorescence, described in contributions by both industry-based researchers and academics engaged in collaborations with industrial partners.

Fluorescence is the most popular technique in chemical and biological sensing and this book provides systematic knowledge of basic principles in the design of fluorescence sensing and imaging techniques together with critical analysis of recent developments. Its ultimate sensitivity, high temporal and spatial resolution and versatility enables high resolution imaging within living cells. It develops rapidly in the directions of constructing new molecular recognition units, new fluorescence reporters and in improving sensitivity of response, up to the detection of single molecules. Its application areas range from the control of industrial processes to environmental monitoring and clinical diagnostics. Being a guide for students and young researchers, it also addresses professionals involved in basic and applied research. Making a strong link between education, research and product development, this book discusses prospects for future progress.

Gregorio Weber is widely acknowledged as the person responsible for the advent of modern fluorescence spectroscopy. Since 2016 is the 100th anniversary of Gregorio Weber’s birth, this special volume has been prepared to honor his life and achievements. It offers contributions from outstanding researchers in the fluorescence field, describing their perspectives on modern fluorescence and its highly diverse applications, ranging from the photophysics of tryptophan and proteins, membrane studies, fluorescence microscopy on live cells, novel software approaches and instrumentation. Many of the authors knew Gregorio Weber personally and have shared their impressions of the man and his contributions. This volume appeals not only to aficionados of fluorescence spectroscopy and its applications in biology, chemistry and physics, but also to those with a general interest in the historical development of an important scientific field.

This volume describes the application of fluorescence spectroscopy in polymer research. The first chapters outline the basic principles of the conformational and dynamic behavior of polymers and review the problems of polymer self-assembly. Subsequent chapters introduce the theoretical principles of advanced fluorescence methods and typical examples of their application in polymer science. The book closes with several reviews of various fluorescence applications for studying specific aspects of polymer-solution behavior. It is a useful resource for polymer scientists and experts in fluorescence spectroscopy alike, facilitating their communication and cooperation.