Laser Scanning versus Wide-Field—Choosing the Appropriate Microscope in Life Sciences

Methods and applications of light microscopy in the life sciences are compared with respect to 3D imaging, resolution, light exposure, sensitivity, and recording time. While conventional wide-field or laser scanning microscopy appear appropriate for smaller samples of only a few micrometers in size with a limited number of light exposures, light sheet microscopy appears to be an optimal method for larger 3D cell cultures, biopsies, or small organisms if multiple exposures or long measuring periods are desired. Super-resolution techniques should be considered in the context of high light exposure possibly causing photobleaching and photo-toxicity to living specimens.