Interference filter microfluorometry of neuromelanin and lipofuscin in human brain.

Following the use of a modified procedure for interference filter microfluorometry, bleached human substantia nigra neuromelanin exhibited a bimodal fluorescence maxima at 435 and 464 nm and human inferior olive lipofuscin, whether oxidized or not, exhibited a peak of fluorescence at 464 nm. Although the fluorescent component of bleached neuromelanin displayed its emission maxima in the spectral region characteristic for lipofuscin, and is regarded as such, its unique bimodality could represent some atypical, but as yet unknown, chemical property. Spectra of three fluorescence standards and a glass blank were also determined.