Visualization of the complex lung microvasculature and resolution of its three-dimensional
architecture remains a difficult experimental challenge. We present a novel fluorescent
microscopy technique to visualize both the normal and diseased pulmonary
microvasculature. Physiologically relevant pulmonary perfusion conditions were applied
using a low-viscosity perfusate infused under continuous airway ventilation. Intensely
fluorescent polystyrene microspheres, confined to the vascular space, were imaged through …