In vivo real-time recording of photoxidation-induced autofluorescence in a melanin-containing fungus using a micro-spectrofluorimeter and a low-cost webcam

An optical epifluorescence microscope, coupled to a CCDcamera, a standard webcam and a microspectrofluorimeter, are used torecord in vivo real-time changes in the autofluorescence of spores andhyphae in Aspergillus niger, a fungus containing melanin, while exposed toUV irradiation. The results point out major changes in both signal intensityand the spectral shape of the autofluorescence signal after only few minutesof exposure, and can contribute to the interpretation of data obtained withother fluorescence techniques, including those, such as GPF labeling, inwhich endogenous fluorophores constitute a major disturbance.