Multi-spectral 3D Imaging System for Cryoslice Specimens
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multispectral fluorescence cryoslice imaging methods are costly and not suitable for high-throughput applications, necessitating a cost-effective and versatile fluorescence imager that can work with existing cryoslicing instruments to image drug distribution and molecular probes in biological specimens with high resolution.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system for creating 3D images of specimens using multiple wavelengths of invisible light, including de-blurring algorithms and co-registration of images from different light sources, which can be used as a portable add-on to existing cryoslicing instruments, enabling detailed visualization and analysis of drug distribution and molecular probes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a standalone multispectral fluorescence cryoslice imager is used, then imaging specificity is improved, but cost per scan increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal imaging system that can perform both reflectance and fluorescence imaging using the same hardware platform. The system uses a single light source that emits multiple wavelengths, and the detector can capture both reflectance and fluorescence signals, eliminating the need for separate specialized imagers and reducing per-scan costs while maintaining imaging specificity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines reflectance imaging and fluorescence imaging capabilities into a single integrated system. By merging the light source, optical paths, and detection mechanisms into one platform, the system achieves cost efficiency through shared hardware while preserving the specific imaging capabilities needed for different measurement types
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wavelengths of light are used for imaging, then imaging versatility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a universal light source that emits multiple wavelengths simultaneously, and a single detector that can capture signals across different spectral ranges. This multi-functional approach allows the system to perform reflectance imaging, fluorescence imaging, and multispectral imaging without requiring separate specialized components for each modality, thereby maintaining versatility while controlling complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical filters and dichroic mirrors as intermediary elements to manage the multiple wavelengths. These intermediaries selectively direct different wavelength ranges to appropriate detection paths, enabling the system to handle multiple imaging modes without requiring complex separate optical systems for each wavelength range
3Measurement precision
If high-resolution imaging is performed, then measurement precision is improved, but throughput decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs reflectance imaging and fluorescence imaging continuously in sequence without requiring separate scanning operations. By capturing both signal types during the same imaging pass through the cryoslicer, the system maintains high resolution while improving throughput by eliminating redundant scanning steps
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
The solution allows for high-resolution, cost-effective imaging of drug distribution and molecular probes, enabling detailed analysis and visualization of probe transport through regions of interest, with the ability to image multiple fluorophores simultaneously and integrate with other modalities like x-ray CT and MRI for multi-modality validation.
Implementation Method 1
The specimen is contacted with at least one first fluorophores having an emission spectrum in the range of approximately 200 nm to 1000 nm
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Disclosed is a computer-implemented method of creating an image of a specimen including receiving a first image of a first section of a specimen created using a first wavelength of invisible light a second image of a second section of the specimen adjacent to the first section and the second image created using the first wavelength of invisible light, co-registering the first image and the second image and creating, by the processor, a single-plane image of the first section using a next-image process.