Third-harmonic generation (THG) imaging: 3D contrast without absorption

Recently a novel imaging technique based on third-harmonic generation (THG) was introduced. This technique relies on a third-order non-linear interaction to generate a coherent signal response on the third-harmonic frequency with respect to the fundamental input radiation. Here we report on the input NA dependence of the THG signal and examine the resulting imaging characteristics of this novel technique in terms of resolution and contrast generation. We'll demonstrate the potential of the technique through a number of imaging examples, with special emphasis on in vivo applications. The latter illustrates the non-invasive character of the technique.