ScienceAugust 25, 2026

confocal

kon-FO-kuhl

Definition

Refers to a type of specialized high-resolution microscopy that uses a spatial pinhole to block out-of-focus light, allowing for clear imaging of specific depths within a specimen.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'con-' meaning 'together' and 'focus', reflecting the technique's ability to bring multiple points of light into a single focal plane for clear imaging.

In the news

The researchers used high-powered confocal microscopes to capture detailed 3D images of heart blood vessels, which allowed them to differentiate between new and old vessel cells.

Heart capillaries may build natural bypasses for blood flow after heart attacks

Read the full article ↗

Medical Xpress

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