Preface

Fluorescence imaging is a non-invasive technique that is widely known to enable visualization of biological processes occurring within living organisms. It encompasses various methods such as microscopy and spectroscopy and can involve a wide variety of fluorescent imaging probes.

In bioscience, fluorescence imaging constitutes an indispensable tool, which has over the last years revolutionized the field by empowering monitoring of cellular processes. By using fluorescent dyes or proteins, scientists can label specific molecules or structures within cells and track their behavior in real-time. Consequently, fluorescence imaging has enabled breakthroughs in understanding cellular functions, such as protein interactions, gene expression, and intracellular signaling pathways.

The use of fluorescence imaging is quite versatile and is not limited only to biological studies. During the last few years, it has also found applicability in a variety of research and technology areas including medical diagnostics, drug discovery, environmental monitoring, and materials science. For instance, fluorescence imaging can be used to detect cancer cells in tissue samples, monitor the distribution of drugs within the body, or assist in detecting microplastics and their degradation. Additionally, it has been highly contributory in studying the effects of pollutants on living organisms as well as for the characterization of nanomaterials.

Acknowledging the quick progress in the field, this book focuses on some new developments within fluorescence imaging. It is organized into three sections. The first section covers novel applications of fluorescence imaging, such as renal intravital microscopy and excitation-emission matrix fluorescence environmental applications. The second section pertains to the development of novel fluorophores and optical chemosensors with an emphasis on graphene-based materials and other optical chemosensors. Finally, the last section deals with the advancement of novel fluorescence imaging techniques and methodologies focusing on time-domain fluorescence lifetime imaging.

In my role as the academic editor of this publication, I would like to express my appreciation to all the authors who have contributed chapters encompassing various research and technology domains related to fluorescence imaging. It has been an honor to explore the groundbreaking works in this significant area of research. A big "thanks" goes to all of you.

I would also like to acknowledge TdB Labs AB, the company I have had the privilege to work for as a Senior Research Scientist since 2019. I would especially like to thank Charlotte de Belder Tesséus (CEO of TdB Labs AB) for the enthusiasm and continuous encouragement she has provided as well as for her immense interest in fluorescent markers, which has been very motivating for me.

> **Dr. Raffaello Papadakis** TdB Labs AB, Uppsala, Sweden

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Section 1

Novel Applications of

Fluorescence Imaging

Section 1
