Statistical estimation theory detection limits for label-free imaging.

Significance: The emergence of label-free microscopy techniques has significantly improved our ability to precisely characterize biochemical targets, enabling non-invasive visualization of cellular organelles and tissue organization. However, understanding each label-free method with respect to the specific benefits, drawbacks, and varied sensitivities under measurement conditions across different types of specimens remains a challenge.

Aim: We link all of these disparate label-free optical interactions together and compare the detection sensitivity within the framework of statistical estimation theory.