Unlocking the Secrets of Collagen With Polarized SHG Microscopy

Multiscale investigation of collagen structure in human skin and gel matrices using polarization resolved second harmonic generation microscopy

A recent study published in Nature has unveiled some interesting insights into the intricate structure of collagen in both artificial matrices and human skin. The team, lead by Dr. Mengyao Zhou (Department of Physics at Vrije University in Amsterdam), utilise advanced imaging techniques to reveal that higher collagen I/III ratios are associated with longer fibril lengths and more organized structures.

The study also found that healthy skin exhibits greater variability in fiber orientation compared to scar tissue, which, despite being more organised, has a higher cellular density due to inflammation.

To investigate the organisation and properties of collagen fibers the team employed PSHG –  polarization second harmonic generation microscopy. For the setup of the microscope the team used the VALO Tidal fiber laser with a pulse duration of less than 50 fs and a central wavelength of 1050 nm.

This technique is particularly valuable for clinical applications in dermatology, burn treatment, and fibrosis monitoring, as it provides a detailed, real-time assessment of collagen organization without the need for invasive procedures.