Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy Market

Confocal microscopy or confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) is a technique of optical imaging to obtain higher optical contrast and resolution of a micrograph by using a spatial pinhole to stop out-of-focus light in the formation of an image. Taking multiple 2-D images at dissimilar depths in a sample permits the rebuilding of 3-D structures (a procedure called optical sectioning) inside an object. This technique is used broadly by industrial and scientific groups, typically in material science, semiconductor inspection, and life sciences. Confocal laser scanning microscopy helps in better understanding of the structure of cells and tissues. By using CLSM, visual segments of tiny structures that would be (for example embryos) can be observed and 3-D structures can be created from the images obtained.

The principle behind the confocal microscopy was patented in 1957 by Marvin Minsky. The microscopy aims to remove certain limitations of conventional wide-pitch fluorescence microscopes. In a conventional fluorescence microscope (wide-field), the entire sample is consistently flooded with light. All parts of the sample in the optical path are stimulated at the same time. The output fluorescence is detected by the photo-detector of microscope or camera that has a big, blurred background part. In contrast to this, a confocal microscope uses a pinhole and point fluorescence in an optically conjoint plane in front of the detector to remove out-of-focus signal. (The term ‘confocal’ originates from this configuration.) Light formed by fluorescence and nearby the focal plane can only be detected. The optical resolution of the image, primarily in the sample depth path, is much better compared to wide-field microscopes. A conventional microscope observes mainly at surface level where light can reach. However, a confocal microscope exclusively observes unique depth level of the image at a stretch. As a consequence, the CLSM reaches an extremely restricted and precise complexity of focus.

Clinically, confocal laser scanning microscope is used in the diagnosis of several eye diseases. It is primarily useful for quantification, qualitative analysis, and imaging of endothelial cells of the cornea. It is utilized for identifying and localizing the occurrence of filamentary fungal component in the corneal stroma in the cases of keratomycosis, allowing rapid analysis. For endoscopic (endomicroscopy) investigation, CLSM techniques is also showing high accuracy in results. In industries such as in pharmaceutical, it is suggested to follow CLSM techniques in manufacturing procedure of tinny films, pharmaceutical forms in order to maintain the uniformity and quality of the drug distribution.

Increasing universal focus on nanotechnology, commercial backing and inspiring government, are some factors rising the global laser scanning confocal microscopy market. Also systematic developments such as digitization of microscopes, excellent resolution microscopy, and great input processes are some key factor for the growth of market. However, greediness of excise tax from the U.S. government, high prices of progressive microscopes, and the comprehensive customs duty on curative devices are major restraints for the global laser scanning confocal microscopy market.

The global laser scanning confocal microscopy market can be segmented based on confocal microscope, end-user, and geography. Based on confocal microscope, the market has been classified into laser scanning confocal microscopes, multiphoton laser confocal microscopes, disk scanning confocal microscopes, and dual spinning disk or micro lens-enhanced confocal microscopes. Based on end-user, the laser scanning confocal microscopy market has been divided into ambulatory surgical centers, diagnostic centers, hospitals, clinics, and research institutes.

Based on geography, the global laser scanning confocal microscopy market has been segmented into five major regions such as North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. Major players operating in the market include Leica microsystems, Nikon Corporation, Olympus Corporation, Carl Zeiss AG, Thorlabs, Brucker and Asylum.