In vivo Cell Tracking and Signalling with Various Imaging Modalities

Abstract

Advancements in imaging technologies have revolutionised the field of immunology by enabling the visualisation of immune cell behaviour and signalling pathways at unprecedented spatial and temporal resolutions. This is a comprehensive review based on various imaging modalities in immunology. It explores various modern imaging techniques, including fluorescence, confocal, TIRF microscopy, SRM, TEM, AFM, etc. Each method offers unique insights into immune processes, from antigen presentation and immunological synapse formation to cell activation and migration. The integration of 3D imaging models, SMI, and multimodal approaches has further enhanced our understanding of immune cell dynamics in both in vivo and in vitro contexts. Applications extended to the study of dendritic cells, T and B cells, neutrophils, and their interactions in health and disease. Furthermore, the development of non-invasive molecular imaging modalities like MRI, PET allows real-time tracking of immune tolerance and therapeutic strategies and shaping the future of personalised immune medicine.