[Confocal laser scanning microscopy: a deep look into the cell].

Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) is a powerful technology for assaying biomolecular distribution and dynamics in cells and tissues. Innovations in CLSM-techniques, coupled with the development of new dyes and genetically encoded indicators, have increased both in vitro and in vivo imaging approaches. CLSM has had wide application in basic science, but little impact so far on medical investigations. As a "cutting edge" technology CLSM has proved to be a valuable tool in some areas within medical applications including pathology, dermatology, ophthalmology and research in various other fields of medicine. This paper gives an overview about the wide range of CLSM-applications and shows the enormous potential of this technology in medical research and development.