Non-invasive In Vivo Imaging of Transplanted Cells
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for studying cellular processes in vivo lack cellular resolution and are often invasive, making it difficult to monitor target cells effectively for drug development and understanding cellular function in physiological settings.
Innovation Solution
Engrafting fluorescently labeled target cells into the eye of a test animal and using non-invasive fluorescent imaging to detect changes in cellular components, allowing for the assessment of test compounds' effects on these cells without invasive procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If non-invasive imaging techniques like CT, MRI, PET or bioluminescence imaging are used, then the imaging is non-invasive and can be performed repeatedly, but cellular resolution is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the imaging system into two functional components: (1) fluorescent labels attached to specific cellular structures or molecules within target cells, and (2) imaging equipment that detects fluorescent signals. This segmentation allows the use of non-invasive imaging techniques while achieving cellular-level resolution through the targeted fluorescent markers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs fluorescent labeling where specific cellular components are tagged with fluorescent markers that emit light at characteristic wavelengths when excited. This color/fluorescence-based detection enables high-resolution imaging of specific cellular structures non-invasively, as the fluorescent signals can be detected through the eye without invasive procedures.
2Measurement precision
If confocal and two-photon laser-scanning microscopy are used, then sub-cellular resolution is achieved, but working distance and imaging depth are limited and access to target cells is invasive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the eye as an intermediary window to access target cells in vivo. By transplanting fluorescently labeled target cells into the eye (a naturally transparent and accessible organ), the system enables high-resolution imaging without invasive surgical procedures. The eye serves as a convenient imaging chamber that maintains cellular viability while allowing repeated non-invasive observations.
3Measurement precision
If invasive methods are used to access target cells for imaging, then cellular resolution can be achieved, but repetitive examinations are excluded and potential complications arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by transplanting fluorescently labeled target cells into the eye before the imaging studies begin. This pre-positioning of the target cells in an accessible, non-invasive location (the eye) enables repeated examinations over time without requiring invasive surgical access for each imaging session, thereby improving reliability and reducing complications.
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
This method provides a non-invasive, high-resolution platform for monitoring cellular activity and function in vivo, enabling the identification of therapeutic compounds and promoting insulin production in diabetic subjects, while reducing the need for invasive procedures and potential complications.
Implementation Method 1
one or more cellular component of therapeutic interest in the transplanted target cells are fluorescently labeled; performing non-invasive fluorescent imaging on the eye of the test animal
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides novel drug discovery platforms and methods for treating diabetes.