Epifluorescence microscopy in combination with deconvolution software for image processing can represent an alternative to confocal laser scanning microscopy. The scattered light from above and below the focal plane is eliminated using specific deconvolution algorithms after a stack of images at different depth of the sample (z-stack) has been generated. A significant advantage over confocal laser scanning microscopy is the lower light intensity (bleaching / phototoxicity) and shorter recording times necessary for image acquisition.