In-vivo Optical Imaging Using Dynamic Time Courses for Anatomical Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In-vivo optical molecular imaging faces challenges such as light scatter and absorption, making it difficult to accurately localize and quantify fluorescent or luminescent dyes deep within the body, and existing methods are complex and costly, often requiring invasive procedures or inaccurate anatomical matching.
Innovation Solution
An optical molecular imaging method that acquires time series image data sets of optical contrast substances, analyzes distinctive time courses to identify anatomical structures, and generates anatomical image maps, allowing for the localization of labeled cells relative to anatomical structures using multiple optical contrast substances and multispectral imaging to differentiate and correct for autofluorescence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical molecular imaging is performed on deep tissue regions, then the ability to study physiological processes in native environments is improved, but light scatter and absorption distort the signals making localization and quantification difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths for optical imaging, which penetrate tissue more effectively than visible light by reducing scatter and absorption. This parameter change in the optical spectrum allows deeper tissue imaging while maintaining signal quality and localization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs 3D optical tomography to reconstruct images from multiple 2D projection views, adding a spatial dimension to the imaging process. This enables accurate localization of deep tissue structures by mathematically reconstructing the 3D distribution of optical signals, overcoming the limitations of 2D surface imaging affected by scatter and absorption.
2Measurement precision
If 3D optical tomography is used to overcome light scatter, then localization accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a simplified optical tomography system that uses a limited number of detector elements and projection angles, performing partial tomographic reconstruction sufficient for the imaging depth required. This reduces device complexity and cost while maintaining adequate localization accuracy for small animal imaging applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses relatively simple, cost-effective optical detectors and light sources rather than expensive advanced imaging modalities. The system accepts limited hardware complexity in exchange for achieving sufficient imaging performance through clever algorithmic reconstruction and optimized optical parameters.
3Measurement precision
If multiple optical contrast substances are used to target different structures, then imaging specificity is improved, but signal differentiation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different spectral characteristics to different optical contrast agents, allowing them to be distinguished by their unique emission or absorption spectra. This local quality differentiation in the spectral domain enables simultaneous imaging of multiple structures with high specificity despite the presence of multiple signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs time-resolved imaging to capture the dynamic behavior of different contrast agents at different time points. By imaging at multiple time points and analyzing the temporal evolution of signals, the system can differentiate between multiple contrast agents based on their distinct pharmacokinetic profiles, even when their spectral signatures overlap.
4Reliability
If longitudinal studies are performed on the same animal, then data variance is reduced, but the animal is exposed to repeated imaging procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic imaging at optimized time intervals to monitor disease progression or treatment response in longitudinal studies. By spacing imaging sessions appropriately and using sensitive optical contrast agents, the system achieves reliable longitudinal data with minimal repeated exposure, balancing study consistency with animal welfare.
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 enhances the accuracy and specificity of imaging by distinguishing anatomical structures based on their dynamic behavior, reducing the need for complex 3D tomography and invasive procedures, while improving the localization and quantification of targeted regions within the body.
Implementation Method 1
the resultant signal due to the optical contrast substance, (such as light being absorbed or emitted, whether in a UV, visible or infrared range) is measurable using an optical detector
Implementation Method 2
Fluorescent dyes require excitation at an appropriate wavelength range for light emission, with the emitted light occurring in a different wavelength range than the excitation range
Implementation Method 3
Luminescent dyes do not require excitation
Implementation Method 4
the light emitted from them will undergo optical scattering because of intervening matter
Data Source
AI summary
In-vivo optical molecular imaging methods for producing an image of an animal are described. A time series of image data sets of an optical contrast substance in the animal is acquired using an optical detector Each image data set is obtained at a selected time and has the same plurality of pixels, with each pixel having an associated value. The image data sets are analyzed to identify a plurality of distinctive time courses, and respective pixel sets are determined from the plurality of pixels which correspond to each of the time courses. In one embodiment, each pixel set is associated with an identified anatomical or other structure, and an anatomical image map of the animal can be generated which includes one or more of the anatomical structures.