Dual-Modality MRI and Optical Imaging System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current imaging technologies face challenges in combining magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and optical imaging for simultaneous data acquisition, leading to limitations in spatial resolution, anatomical information, and experimental complexity, particularly in distinguishing between tumor tissue and necrosis or scar tissue.
Innovation Solution
A dual-modality imaging system that integrates a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus with a non-contact optical imaging detector, allowing for simultaneous acquisition of MRI and optical imaging data, using a micro-lens array and position-sensitive photo detectors to achieve high-resolution anatomical and molecular imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If MRI and optical imaging are performed separately using sequential methods, then the structural information from MRI and functional information from optical imaging can be obtained, but the imaging time is extended and the subject may move between scans leading to misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines MRI and optical imaging systems into a single integrated apparatus, allowing both imaging modalities to operate simultaneously on the same subject. The MRI scanner and optical imaging detector are merged into one system, enabling concurrent acquisition of structural and functional data without sequential scanning delays
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous simultaneous operation of both MRI and optical imaging throughout the examination period. Both imaging modalities operate continuously and concurrently rather than alternating between them, eliminating idle time and ensuring continuous data acquisition from both systems
2Measurement precision
If contact-based optical imaging detectors are used, then the detector can be positioned close to the subject for better signal detection, but the experimental setup becomes more complex and may interfere with the subject
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces contact-based mechanical detection systems with non-contact optical detection methods. The optical imaging detector uses light-based detection without physical contact with the subject, eliminating the need for complex positioning mechanisms and reducing interference with the subject while maintaining signal detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses optical photons as an intermediary medium to transmit information from the subject to the detector without direct physical contact. Light serves as the mediator that carries functional information from the subject to the optical imaging detector, enabling detection without mechanical contact or complex positioning
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate imaging systems are used for MRI and optical imaging, then each system can be optimized independently, but the co-registration and integration of data from both modalities becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges MRI and optical imaging systems into a single integrated apparatus with a common coordinate system and shared subject positioning. Both imaging modalities are physically combined and calibrated to the same reference frame, enabling automatic co-registration of data without complex post-processing alignment procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated system serves multiple imaging functions simultaneously through a single unified apparatus. The system can perform MRI scanning, optical imaging, and fused multi-modal imaging all through one device, eliminating the need for separate independent systems while maintaining optimization capabilities
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate, time-resolved, non-contact imaging of fluorescent or bioluminescent probes and nuclear magnetic resonance signals, improving diagnostic accuracy by merging functional and morphological data sets, reducing experimental complexity, and enhancing the ability to track molecular events and disease progression.
Implementation Method 1
medical MRI relies on the relaxation properties of excited hydrogen nuclei in water. When the object to be imaged is placed in a strong (several Tesla) uniform magnetic field the spins of the atomic nuclei with non-zero spin quantum numbers align parallel or anti-parallel to the magnetic field. The imaged object is then briefly exposed to radio frequency (RF) pulses
Implementation Method 2
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is an existing powerful non-invasive medical imaging technique
Implementation Method 3
Fluorescence is the result of a process that occurs in certain molecules called fluorophores or fluorescent dyes. A fluorescent probe is a fluorophore designed to localize within a specific region of a biological specimen or to respond to a specific stimulus. In order to perform fluorescence imaging, a photon of certain energy is supplied by an external source such as an incandescent lamp or a laser and absorbed by the fluorophore, creating an excited electronic singlet state. This process distinguishes fluorescence from bioluminescence. It follows that another photon of lower energy is emitted, returning the fluorophore to its ground state.
Implementation Method 4
Bioluminescence refers to the visible light emission in living organisms that accompanies the oxidation of organic compounds (luciferins) mediated by an enzyme catalyst (luciferase). Unlike fluorescence approaches, the imaged object does not need to be exposed to the light of an external light source.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a dual-modality imaging system and a method for dual-modality imaging of an imaged object, wherein a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) apparatus for acquiring MRI data and at least one optical imaging detector for acquiring optical imaging data are arranged to acquire the MRI data and the optical imaging data of the imaged object (10) simultaneously, the at least one optical imaging detector being a non-contact optical imaging detector.