Confocal fluorescence microscopy of living cells

Abstract

We present here the study of intracellular distribution of doxorubicin in the single living cell by scanning confocal fluorescence microscopy, with argon laser excitation and photon counting detection. New results on the nuclear and cytoplasmic drug fluorescence not detectable by conventional microscopy are discussed. Differences in the fluorescence pattern observed in living and fixed cells suggest new insights in the mode of action of the drug.