Innovations for improved chemical imaging and optical manipulation in biological systems

This thesis describes advancements in both chemical imaging and optical manipulation methodologies for their application in tandem monitoring and control of biochemical processes. We developed a fast acquisition multimodal nonlinear imaging platform based on pulse-picking to minimize photoperturbation to the sample during imaging. By frequency doubling the imaging source, through acousto-optic modulation and simple comparator circuitry, we developed a comprehensive platform that uses chemical specific signals generated during imaging to control the pixel location for laser activation for reaction control. This feedback loop allows for advanced decision logic on a pixel by pixel basis.