Cytomembrane visualization using Stokes parameter confocal microscopy.

A new, to the best of our knowledge, method for Stokes vector imaging is proposed to achieve imaging and dynamic monitoring of a non-labeled cytomembrane. In this work, a polarization state vector is described by a Stokes vector and expressed in chrominance space. A physical quantity called polarization chromaticity value (PCV) corresponding to a Stokes vector is used as the imaging parameter to perform Stokes vector imaging. By using the PCV imaging technique, the Stokes vector can be expressed in three-dimensional real space rather than in a Poincare sphere. Furthermore, a four-way Stokes parameter confocal microscopy system is designed to measure four Stokes parameters simultaneously and obtain micro-imaging. Label-free living onion cell membranes and their plasmolysis process are selected as the representative micro-anisotropy experimental analysis. It is proved that PCV imaging can perform visualization of cytomembranes, and further, microscopic orientation is demonstrated. The prospect of universal measurement of anisotropy details for analysis and diagnosis is provided.