Abstract: Systems and methods that enhance the resolution of a microscope in all three spatial dimensions. A microscope system is provided that typically includes a first objective lens (20), an illumination source that provides excitation illumination (?ex) at a first wavelength through the objective lens (20) in a first direction onto a fluorescent sample so as to induce fluorescent emission in the sample at a second wavelength (?fl) different than the first wavelength. The system also typically includes an element (60) that provides illumination at the second wavelength (?fl) to the sample in a second direction different from the first direction, and a detector (10) for detecting the fluorescent emission. The optical gain of the fluorescent emission at the second wavelength is enhanced through stimulated emission.

Abstract: Systems and methods that enhance the resolution of a microscope in all three spatial dimensions. A microscope system is provided that typically includes a first objective lens (20), an illumination source that provides excitation illumination (?ex) at a first wavelength through the objective lens (20) in a first direction onto a fluorescent sample so as to induce fluorescent emission in the sample at a second wavelength (?fI) different than the first wavelength. The system also typically includes an element (60) that provides illumination at the second wavelength (?fl) to the sample in a second direction different from the first direction, and a detector (10) for detecting the fluorescent emission. The optical gain of the fluorescent emission at the second wavelength is enhanced through stimulated emission.

Abstract: A method and kit are described that are useful in the diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or the evaluation of its progression. According to the method, a purified voltage-sensitive calcium channel complex is contacted with a biological fluid obtained from a person suspected of having, or known to have, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The voltage-sensitive calcium channel is of a type that ALS sera selectively reacts with. The reaction takes place for a time and under conditions sufficient for the calcium channel complex and anti-calcium channel complex antibodies that may be present in the biological fluid to form an antigen/antibody complex. The presence or absence of the antigen/antibody complex is then determined.