Advances in laser concepts for multiplex, coherent Raman scattering micro-spectroscopy and imaging

In this contribution, we want to review recent advances and innovations in laser sources and detection concepts for coherent Raman scattering microscopy with special emphasis on hyperspectral and multiplex imaging methods for biomedical applications. Groundbreaking advances have been made to increase the chemical sensitivity while maintaining video-rate imaging speeds. Excitation and detection schemes have been further improved to enhance the image contrast as well as to increase the spectral coverage and speed of multi-spectral data acquisition along with the ongoing quest to develop both compact and robust but also powerful and rapidly tunable laser sources suitable for integration into biomedical equipment.