Myelin Sheath and Astroglial Filaments (IMAGE) Purdue University Caption This picture was taken with two microscopic imaging techniques combined in the same platform, enabling researchers to conduct more specific and precise molecular analyses for research regarding multiple sclerosis and other conditions. Combining the techniques offers the hope of understanding the molecular mechanisms responsible for the impairment of the myelin sheath and overproduction of "astroglial filaments," which form bundles between critical nerve fibers and interfere with proper spinal cord functioning. Purdue researchers have shown how to combine three imaging techniques in one platform to analyze living tissues. This particular image combines pictures taken with two of those imaging techniques. The picture shows the myelin sheath, in red, taken with a technique called coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering, and astroglial filaments, in green, taken with another imaging technique called sum frequency generation. Credit Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.