Fluorescence Imaging Segmentation for Faster Multi-Feature Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fluorescence microscopy techniques that rely on sequential imaging of different fluorophores or spectral channel separation are time-consuming and stressful to the sample due to repeated light exposure.
Innovation Solution
An imaging device that excites multiple fluorophores simultaneously and uses image segmentation to distinguish features marked with the same fluorophore, allowing for faster imaging with reduced light exposure by generating separate image regions and composite images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sequential imaging of different fluorophores is used, then features marked with different fluorophores can be distinguished, but imaging time increases and sample stress increases due to repeated light exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fluorophores (first fluorophore and second fluorophore) into a single imaging step by exciting both simultaneously with excitation light. The detection unit captures fluorescence light from both fluorophores together, and the controller distinguishes the features through image segmentation algorithms that separate the first image region (first feature) and second image region (second feature) from the combined fluorescence image, thereby reducing total imaging time while maintaining feature distinction capability
2Measurement precision
If sequential imaging of different fluorophores is used, then features marked with different fluorophores can be distinguished, but sample stress increases due to repeated light exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the excitation of multiple fluorophores into a single simultaneous operation. The excitation unit emits excitation light that excites both the first fluorophore and second fluorophore at the same time. The detection unit receives fluorescence light from both fluorophores in one imaging step, reducing the number of times the sample is exposed to light and thereby reducing sample stress while still enabling feature distinction through image segmentation
3Measurement precision
If spectral channel separation is used to distinguish fluorophores, then different fluorophores can be identified, but sample stress remains high since each fluorophore must be excited individually
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the excitation of multiple fluorophores into a single simultaneous process. The excitation unit emits excitation light that excites both fluorophores at the same time, and the detection unit captures fluorescence light from both in one imaging step. The controller then separates and identifies the different fluorophores through image segmentation that distinguishes the first image region and second image region, achieving fluorophore identification without requiring individual excitation and thereby reducing sample stress
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 faster and less stressful fluorescence imaging of multiple features by minimizing light exposure and optimizing spectral channel usage, while maintaining clear distinction between features.
Implementation Method 1
Fluorophores can be excited by excitation light, typically light of a specific wavelength, to emit fluorescence light
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device for imaging a sample includes an excitation unit configured to emit excitation light for exciting a first fluorophore attached to a first feature of the sample and at least a second feature of the sample, and a detection unit configured to receive fluorescence light from the first fluorophore, and generate at least one fluorescence image from the received fluorescence light. The imaging device further includes a controller configured to determine, based on an image segmentation, a first image region of the fluorescence image corresponding to the first feature and a second image region of the fluorescence image corresponding to the second feature, generate a first image based on the first image region and a second image based on the second image region, and/or generate a composite image comprising at least the first image region and the second image region.