Fluorescence microscopes are specialized optical instruments that use fluorescence to visualize samples. They work by illuminating the specimen with specific wavelengths of light, causing certain molecules within the sample to emit light at different wavelengths. This emitted light is then captured to create detailed images, allowing researchers to study the structure and function of cells and tissues.
These microscopes are widely used in various fields, including biology, medicine, and materials science. They are particularly valuable for studying fluorescent proteins, which can be genetically introduced into organisms, enabling scientists to track cellular processes in real-time.