Ultra-compact fiber-optic two-photon microscope for functional fluorescence imaging in vivo

Compact and flexible raster scanning multiphoton endoscope capable of imaging unstained tissue

We present a compact and flexible endoscope (3-mm outer diameter, 4-cm rigid length) that utilizes a miniaturized resonant/nonresonant fiber raster scanner and a multielement gradient-index lens assembly for two-photon excited intrinsic fluorescence and second-harmonic generation imaging of biological tissues. The miniaturized raster scanner is fabricated by mounting a commercial double-clad optical fiber (DCF) onto two piezo bimorphs that are aligned such that their bending axes are perpendicular to each other. Fast lateral scanning of the laser illumination at 4.1 frames/s (512 lines per frame) is achieved by simultaneously driving the DCF cantilever at its resonant frequency in one dimension and nonresonantly in the orthogonal axis. The implementation of a DCF into the scanner enables simultaneous delivery of the femtosecond pulsed 800-nm excitation source and epi-collection of the signal. Our device is able to achieve a field-of-view (FOV(xy)) of 110 μm by 110 μm with a highly uniform pixel dwell time. The lateral and axial resolutions for two-photon imaging are 0.8 and 10 μm, respectively. The endoscope's imaging capabilities were demonstrated by imaging ex vivo mouse tissue through the collection of intrinsic fluorescence and second-harmonic signal without the need for staining. The results presented here indicate that our device can be applied in the future to perform minimally invasive in vivo optical biopsies for medical diagnostics.

Confocal endomicroscopy: instrumentation and medical applications

Advances in fiber optic technology and miniaturized optics and mechanics have propelled confocal endomicroscopy into the clinical realm. This high resolution, non-invasive imaging technology provides the ability to microscopically evaluate cellular and sub-cellular features in tissue in vivo by optical sectioning. Because many cancers originate in epithelial tissues accessible by endoscopes, confocal endomicroscopy has been explored to detect regions of possible neoplasia at an earlier stage by imaging morphological features in vivo that are significant in histopathologic evaluation. This technique allows real-time assessment of tissue which may improve diagnostic yield by guiding biopsy. Research and development continues to reduce the overall size of the imaging probe, increase the image acquisition speed, and improve resolution and field of view of confocal endomicroscopes. Technical advances will continue to enable application to less accessible organs and more complex systems in the body. Lateral and axial resolutions down to 0.5 and 3 μm, respectively, field of view as large as 800 × 450 μm, and objective lens and total probe outer diameters down to 0.35 and 1.25 mm, respectively, have been achieved. We provide a review of the historical developments of confocal imaging in vivo, the evolution of endomicroscope instrumentation, and the medical applications of confocal endomicroscopy.

Miniaturized integration of a fluorescence microscope

The light microscope is traditionally an instrument of substantial size and expense. Its miniaturized integration would enable many new applications based on mass-producible, tiny microscopes. Key prospective usages include brain imaging in behaving animals for relating cellular dynamics to animal behavior. Here we introduce a miniature (1.9 g) integrated fluorescence microscope made from mass-producible parts, including a semiconductor light source and sensor. This device enables high-speed cellular imaging across ∼0.5 mm2 areas in active mice. This capability allowed concurrent tracking of Ca2+ spiking in >200 Purkinje neurons across nine cerebellar microzones. During mouse locomotion, individual microzones exhibited large-scale, synchronized Ca2+ spiking. This is a mesoscopic neural dynamic missed by prior techniques for studying the brain at other length scales. Overall, the integrated microscope is a potentially transformative technology that permits distribution to many animals and enables diverse usages, such as portable diagnostics or microscope arrays for large-scale screens.

Depixelation of coherent fiber bundle endoscopy based on learning patterns of image prior

We present an iterative method of eliminating pixelation artifacts from an endoscopic image acquired from a coherent fiber bundle imager. Our proposed approach for decoupling the honeycomb effect from the obtained sample image was formulated by using the prior probability for an approximate Bayesian framework in which the ideal complete image can be estimated by maximizing the posterior probability from the observed image. The maximization of the posterior probability from the original mask image (the mirrored fiber bundle imager structure) and the observed image (the sample image of the United States Air Force chart) has been performed by learning the image priors in the space of Markov random fields. By iteratively estimating the probability distribution, we reduced the noise effects from the mask image and recovered the ideal shape of the image. This method was efficient for automatically learning the sliding patch from the combination of projected kernels. The mask and observed images were obtained from en face images of the Fourier domain optical coherence tomography based on a common path interferometry scheme.

Future and advances in endoscopy

The future of endoscopy will be dictated by rapid technological advances in the development of light sources, optical fibers, and miniature scanners that will allow for images to be collected in multiple spectral regimes, with greater tissue penetration, and in three dimensions. These engineering breakthroughs will be integrated with novel molecular probes that are highly specific for unique proteins to target diseased tissues. Applications include early cancer detection by imaging molecular changes that occur before gross morphological abnormalities, personalized medicine by visualizing molecular targets specific to individual patients, and image guided therapy by localizing tumor margins and monitoring for recurrence.

Multiphoton fluorescence microscopy with GRIN objective aberration correction by low order adaptive optics

Graded Index (GRIN) rod microlenses are increasingly employed in the assembly of optical probes for microendoscopy applications. Confocal, two–photon and optical coherence tomography (OCT) based on GRIN optical probes permit in–vivo imaging with penetration depths into tissue up to the centimeter range. However, insertion of the probe can be complicated by the need of several alignment and focusing mechanisms along the optical path. Furthermore, resolution values are generally not limited by diffraction, but rather by optical aberrations within the endoscope probe and feeding optics. Here we describe a multiphoton confocal fluorescence imaging system equipped with a compact objective that incorporates a GRIN probe and requires no adjustment mechanisms. We minimized the effects of aberrations with optical compensation provided by a low–order electrostatic membrane mirror (EMM) inserted in the optical path of the confocal architecture, resulting in greatly enhanced image quality.

Photon counting, censor corrections, and lifetime imaging for improved detection in two-photon microscopy

We present a high-speed photon counter for use with two-photon microscopy. Counting pulses of photocurrent, as opposed to analog integration, maximizes the signal-to-noise ratio so long as the uncertainty in the count does not exceed the gain-noise of the photodetector. Our system extends this improvement through an estimate of the count that corrects for the censored period after detection of an emission event. The same system can be rapidly reconfigured in software for fluorescence lifetime imaging, which we illustrate by distinguishing between two spectrally similar fluorophores in an in vivo model of microstroke.

Ultra-slim plastic endomicroscope objective for non-linear microscopy

Non-linear microscopy has the potential to provide clinically useful information on the structure of biological tissue in vivo via an endomicroscope. The ability to use plastic as the optical material in a multiphoton objective was evaluated based on several criteria including autofluorescence, injection molding induced birefringence, and pulse broadening due to group velocity dispersion. An all-plastic, refractive ultra-slim endoscope objective was built with design specifications of NA=0.4, FOV=250 μm, 1.27 mm outer diameter, and 0.8 mm clear aperture. Initial images of second-harmonic generation signal (illumination at 780 nm) in collagen fibers and two-photon excited fluorescence (illumination at 920 nm) of Convallaria rhizome are reported.

An integrated imaging microscope for untethered cortical imaging in freely-moving animals

Imaging in awake, behaving animals is an emerging field that offers the advantage of being able to study physiological processes and structures in a more natural state than what is possible in tissue slices or even in anesthetized animals. To date, most imaging in awake animals has used optical fiber bundles or electrical cables to transfer signals to traditional imaging-system components. However, the fibers or cables tether the animal and greatly limit the kind and duration of animal behavior that can be studied using imaging methods. We present an integrated imaging microscope (IIM) that incorporates all aspects of an imaging system - illumination, optics and photodetection - into a small footprint device, occupying under 4 cm(3) and weighing 5.4 g, that can be attached to the skull for imaging the brain in mobile rats. Power supply and image storage sufficient for approximately 7 hour operation at 15 frames/s was implemented on a backpack weighing 11.5 g. We implemented several optical techniques including reflectance, spectroscopy, speckle and fluorescence with the IIM, imaged vessels down to 15-20 microm in diameter and obtained, to the best of our knowledge, the worlds first cortical images from an untethered, freely-moving rat.

Reconstruction of polarization-shaped laser pulses after a hollow-core fiber using backreflection

We present a method to reconstruct the pulse shape of polarization-shaped femtosecond laser pulses after a hollow-core photonic crystal fiber by reflecting the pulses back through the fiber. First, a procedure is introduced to receive the optical fiber properties and generate parametrically shaped pulses after propagation through the fiber. Changes of the fiber's birefringence by mechanical stress are examined to investigate the correlation between the pulse shapes after one and two passes through the fiber. Finally, we demonstrate the characterization of the pulse after one pass through the fiber by calculating the pulse shape from the measured pulse after two passes.

Identification of nasal eosinophils using two-photon excited fluorescence

BACKGROUND

Eosinophils trigger symptoms in allergic rhinitis. New diagnostic methods for identifying nasal eosinophils based on autofluorescence of flavin adenine dinucleotide in eosinophil granules could offer rapid monitoring without fixation or staining. Two-photon excitation is a powerful method for detecting this intrinsic fluorescence.

OBJECTIVES

To demonstrate the use of 2-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) to detect eosinophils from nasal mucosa in a proof-of-concept study for a future miniature in vivo imaging instrument.

METHODS

Thirty subjects with rhinitis were recruited. Results of our standard environmental panel were recorded. Fluorescence images were collected from nasal cytology smears with a 2-photon microscope. Cells were evaluated for intensity and size, and compared with Hansel stains. Correlation of cell count was made by linear regression, diagnostic performance was evaluated at various intensity thresholds, and correlation of nasal eosinophil count to allergic status was done through the Wilcoxon rank-sum test.

RESULTS

The fluorescence intensity of eosinophils compared with epithelial cells was 13.8 ± 4.3 versus 3.7 ± 1.8 (P < .01), and the size was 27.0 ± 10.2 versus 392.0 ± 214.6 μm2 (P < .01), respectively. Using both fluorescence intensity and size, a total accuracy of 100% is achieved. Eosinophil count on TPEF correlates with Hansel stain, R(2) = 0.91. Nasal eosinophil count correlates with allergic status on both TPEF (P = .008) and Hansel stain images (P = .027).

CONCLUSIONS

TPEF is a promising novel technique for identifying and quantifying nasal eosinophils on nasal cytology specimens without the need for fixation or staining. Future development of a rhinoscope-compatible 2-photon microscope could be used as a clinical adjunct for the diagnosis and management of rhinitis patients in vivo.

High-resolution resonant and nonresonant fiber-scanning confocal microscope

We present a novel, hand-held microscope probe for acquiring confocal images of biological tissue. This probe generates images by scanning a fiber-lens combination with a miniature electromagnetic actuator, which allows it to be operated in resonant and nonresonant scanning modes. In the resonant scanning mode, a circular field of view with a diameter of 190 μm and an angular frequency of 127 Hz can be achieved. In the nonresonant scanning mode, a maximum field of view with a width of 69 μm can be achieved. The measured transverse and axial resolutions are 0.60 and 7.4 μm, respectively. Images of biological tissue acquired in the resonant mode are presented, which demonstrate its potential for real-time tissue differentiation. With an outer diameter of 3 mm, the microscope probe could be utilized to visualize cellular microstructures in vivo across a broad range of minimally-invasive procedures.

Intravital microscopy as a tool to study drug delivery in preclinical studies

The technical developments in the field of non-linear microscopy have made intravital microscopy one of the most successful techniques for studying physiological and pathological processes in live animals. Intravital microscopy has been utilized to address many biological questions in basic research and is now a fundamental tool for preclinical studies, with an enormous potential for clinical applications. The ability to dynamically image cellular and subcellular structures combined with the possibility to perform longitudinal studies have empowered investigators to use this discipline to study the mechanisms of action of therapeutic agents and assess the efficacy on their targets in vivo. The goal of this review is to provide a general overview of the recent advances in intravital microscopy and to discuss some of its applications in preclinical studies.

Miniaturized multimodal CARS microscope based on MEMS scanning and a single laser source

We demonstrate a novel miniaturized multimodal coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) microscope based on microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) scanning mirrors and custom miniature optics. A single Ti:sapphire femtosecond pulsed laser is used as the light source to produce the CARS, two photon excitation fluorescence (TPEF) and second harmonic generation (SHG) images using this miniaturized microscope. The high resolution and distortion-free images obtained from various samples such as a USAF target, fluorescent and polystyrene microspheres and biological tissue successfully demonstrate proof of concept, and pave the path towards future integration of parts into a handheld multimodal CARS probe for non- or minimally-invasive in vivo imaging.

Molecular imaging of HER2-positive breast cancer: a step toward an individualized 'image and treat' strategy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

HER2 overexpression is correlated with aggressive tumor behavior and poor clinical outcome. Therefore, HER2 has become an important prognostic and predictive factor, as well as a target for molecular therapies. The article reviews recent advances in molecular imaging of HER2 that could facilitate individual approaches to targeted therapy of HER2-positive breast cancers.

RECENT FINDINGS

Because of the heterogeneity of breast cancer and possible discordance in HER2 status between primary tumors and distant metastases, assessment of HER2 expression by noninvasive imaging may become an important complement to immunohistochemistry or fluorescence in-situ hybridization analyses of biopsied tissue. Monoclonal antibodies such as trastuzumab and pertuzumab, or small scaffold proteins such as affibody molecules are used as HER2-targeting agents. For imaging purposes, these agents are labeled with positron or gamma-emitting radionuclides, optical dyes, or paramagnetic contrast molecules for positron emission tomography single photon emission tomography optical, and magnetic resonance imaging, respectively. HER2-specific molecular probes, combined with modern imaging techniques to provide information on HER2 expression not only in primary tumors but also in distant metastases not amenable to biopsy, may reduce problems with false negative results and, thereby, influence patient management by selecting patients that would benefit from HER2-targeted therapies.

SUMMARY

The new 'image and treat' strategy, involving assessment of target presence and distribution in an individual patient followed by optimized, target-specific drug delivery, may potentially improve efficacy of cancer treatment while reducing side effects.

Development of a versatile two-photon endoscope for biological imaging

We describe a versatile, catheter-type two-photon probe, designed for in vivo and ex vivo imaging of the aqueous outflow pathway in the eye. The device consists of a silica double cladding fiber used for laser delivery and fluorescence collection, a spiral fiber scanner driven by a miniature piezoelectric tube, and an assembly of three micro-size doublet achromatic lenses used for focusing the laser and collecting the two-photon excitation signal. All the components have a maximum diameter of 2 mm and are enclosed in a length of 12-gauge stainless steel hypodermic tubing having an outer diameter of 2.8 mm. The lateral and axial resolutions of the probe are measured to be 1.5 μm and 9.2 μm, respectively. Different lens configurations and fibers are evaluated by comparing their spatial resolutions and fluorescence signal collection efficiencies. Doublet achromatic lenses and a double cladding fiber with a high inner cladding numerical aperture are found to produce a high signal collection efficiency, which is essential for imaging live tissues. Simple methods for reducing image distortions are demonstrated. Images of human trabecular meshwork tissue are successfully obtained with this miniature two-photon microscope.

Miniaturized video-rate epi-third-harmonic-generation fiber-microscope

With a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) mirror, we successfully developed a miniaturized epi-third-harmonic-generation (epi-THG) fiber-microscope with a video frame rate (31 Hz), which was designed for in vivo optical biopsy of human skin. With a large-mode-area (LMA) photonic crystal fiber (PCF) and a regular microscopic objective, the nonlinear distortion of the ultrafast pulses delivery could be much reduced while still achieving a 0.4 microm lateral resolution for epi-THG signals. In vivo real time virtual biopsy of the Asian skin with a video rate (31 Hz) and a sub-micron resolution was obtained. The result indicates that this miniaturized system was compact enough for the least invasive hand-held clinical use.

Scanning fiber endoscopy with highly flexible, 1 mm catheterscopes for wide-field, full-color imaging

In modern endoscopy, wide field of view and full color are considered necessary for navigating inside the body, inspecting tissue for disease and guiding interventions such as biopsy or surgery. Current flexible endoscope technologies suffer from reduced resolution when device diameter shrinks. Endoscopic procedures today, using coherent fiber-bundle technology on the scale of 1 mm, are performed with such poor image quality that the clinician's vision meets the criteria for legal blindness. Here, we review a new and versatile scanning fiber-imaging technology and describe its implementation for ultrathin and flexible endoscopy. This scanning fiber endoscope (SFE) or catheterscope enables high-quality, laser-based, video imaging for ultrathin clinical applications, while also providing new options for in vivo biological research of subsurface tissue and high resolution fluorescence imaging.

Strategies for high-resolution imaging of epithelial ovarian cancer by laparoscopic nonlinear microscopy

Ovarian cancer remains the most frequently lethal of the gynecologic cancers owing to the late detection of this disease. Here, by using human specimens and three mouse models of ovarian cancer, we tested the feasibility of nonlinear imaging approaches, the multiphoton microscopy (MPM) and second harmonic generation (SHG) to serve as complementary tools for ovarian cancer diagnosis. We demonstrate that MPM/SHG of intrinsic tissue emissions allows visualization of unfixed, unsectioned, and unstained tissues at a resolution comparable to that of routinely processed histologic sections. In addition to permitting discrimination between normal and neoplastic tissues according to pathological criteria, the method facilitates morphometric assessment of specimens and detection of very early cellular changes in the ovarian surface epithelium. A red shift in cellular intrinsic fluorescence and collagen structural alterations have been identified as additional cancer-associated changes that are indiscernible by conventional pathologic techniques. Importantly, the feasibility of in vivo laparoscopic MPM/SHG is demonstrated by using a "stick" objective lens. Intravital detection of neoplastic lesions has been further facilitated by low-magnification identification of an indicator for cathepsin activity followed by MPM laparoscopic imaging. Taken together, these results demonstrate that MPM may be translatable to clinical settings as an endoscopic approach suitable for high-resolution optical biopsies as well as a pathology tool for rapid initial assessment of ovarian cancer samples.

Miniaturized selective plane illumination microscopy for high-contrast in vivo fluorescence imaging

Light-sheet-based fluorescence imaging techniques rely on simultaneous excitation of a single optical plane and thus permit high-contrast optically sectioned imaging of extended tissue samples. Here, we introduce a miniaturized fiber-optic implementation of a selective plane-illumination microscope (miniSPIM). The excitation light was delivered through a single-mode optical fiber, and a light-sheet was created with a cylindrical gradient-index lens and a right-angle microprism. Fluorescence emission was collected orthogonally to the light-sheet through a gradient-index lens assembly and a coherent fiber bundle. The end face of the fiber bundle was imaged onto a charge-coupled device camera. The spatial resolutions of the miniSPIM were 3.2 microm laterally and 5.1 microm axially. Images of fluorescent beads and neurons in mouse neocortex exhibited superior axial resolution and contrast in the miniSPIM-mode compared to images recorded in epi-illumination mode. The miniSPIM may thus enable novel in vivo imaging approaches.

Two-photon microscopy for non-invasive, quantitative monitoring of stem cell differentiation

Background

The engineering of functional tissues is a complex multi-stage process, the success of which depends on the careful control of culture conditions and ultimately tissue maturation. To enable the efficient optimization of tissue development protocols, techniques suitable for monitoring the effects of added stimuli and induced tissue changes are needed.

Methodology/Principal Findings

Here, we present the quantitative use of two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) and second harmonic generation (SHG) as a noninvasive means to monitor the differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) using entirely endogenous sources of contrast. We demonstrate that the individual fluorescence contribution from the intrinsic cellular fluorophores NAD(P)H, flavoproteins and lipofuscin can be extracted from TPEF images and monitored dynamically from the same cell population over time. Using the redox ratio, calculated from the contributions of NAD(P)H and flavoproteins, we identify distinct patterns in the evolution of the metabolic activity of hMSCs maintained in either propagation, osteogenic or adipogenic differentiation media. The differentiation of these cells is mirrored by changes in cell morphology apparent in high resolution TPEF images and by the detection of collagen production via SHG imaging. Finally, we find dramatic increases in lipofuscin levels in hMSCs maintained at 20% oxygen vs. those in 5% oxygen, establishing the use of this chromophore as a potential biomarker for oxidative stress.

Conclusions/Significance

In this study we demonstrate that it is possible to monitor the metabolic activity, morphology, ECM production and oxidative stress of hMSCs in a non-invasive manner. This is accomplished using generally available multiphoton microscopy equipment and simple data analysis techniques, such that the method can widely adopted by laboratories with a diversity of comparable equipment. This method therefore represents a powerful tool, which enables researchers to monitor engineered tissues and optimize culture conditions in a near real time manner.

Pixelation effect removal from fiber bundle probe based optical coherence tomography imaging

A method of eliminating pixelization effect from en face optical coherence tomography (OCT) image when a fiber bundle is used as an OCT imaging probe is presented. We have demonstrated that applying a histogram equalization process before performing a weighted-averaged Gaussian smoothing filter to the original lower gray level intensity based image not only removes the structural artifact of the bundle but also enhances the image quality with minimum blurring of object's image features. The measured contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) for an image of the US Air Force test target was 14.7dB (4.9dB), after (before) image processing. In addition, by performing the spatial frequency analysis based on two-dimensional discrete Fourier transform (2-D DFT), we were able to observe that the periodic intensity peaks induced by the regularly arrayed structure of the fiber bundle can be efficiently suppressed by 41.0dB for the first nearby side lobe as well as to obtain the precise physical spacing information of the fiber grid. The proposed combined method can also be used as a straight forward image processing tool for any imaging system utilizing fiber bundle as a high-resolution imager.

Design and characterization of a miniaturized epi-illuminated microscope

The ability to observe functional and morphological changes in the brain is critical in understanding behavioral and developmental neuroscience. With advances in electronics and miniaturization, electrophysiological recordings from awake, behaving animals has allowed investigators to perform a multitude of behavioral studies by observing changes as an animal is engaged in certain tasks. Imaging offers advantages of observing structure as well as function, and the ability to monitor activity over large areas. However, imaging from an awake, behaving animal has not been explored well. We present the design and characterization of a miniaturized epi-illuminated optical system that is part of a larger goal to perform optical imaging in awake, behaving animals. The system comprises of a tunable light source and imaging optics in a small footprint of 18 mm diameter, 18 mm height and weight 5.7 grams. It offers a spatial illumination non-uniformity of 3.2% over a maximum field of view of 1.5 mm x 1.5 mm, negligible temporal illumination and temperature variation and controllable magnification. Uncorrected radial distortion was 5.3% (corrected to 1.8%) and the spatial frequency response was comparable to a reference system. The system was used to image cortical vasculature in an anesthetized rat.

Chronic cellular imaging of mouse visual cortex during operant behavior and passive viewing

Nearby neurons in mammalian neocortex demonstrate a great diversity of cell types and connectivity patterns. The importance of this diversity for computation is not understood. While extracellular recording studies in visual cortex have provided a particularly rich description of behavioral modulation of neural activity, new methods are needed to dissect the contribution of specific circuit elements in guiding visual perception. Here, we describe a method for three-dimensional cellular imaging of neural activity in the awake mouse visual cortex during active discrimination and passive viewing of visual stimuli. Head-fixed mice demonstrated robust discrimination for many hundred trials per day after initial task acquisition. To record from multiple neurons during operant behavior with single-trial resolution and minimal artifacts, we built a sensitive microscope for two-photon calcium imaging, capable of rapid tracking of neurons in three dimensions. We demonstrate stable recordings of cellular calcium activity during discrimination behavior across hours, days, and weeks, using both synthetic and genetically encoded calcium indicators. When combined with molecular and genetic technologies in mice (e.g., cell-type specific transgenic labeling), this approach allows the identification of neuronal classes in vivo. Physiological measurements from distinct classes of neighboring neurons will enrich our understanding of the coordinated roles of diverse elements of cortical microcircuits in guiding sensory perception and perceptual learning. Further, our method provides a high-throughput, chronic in vivo assay of behavioral influences on cellular activity that is applicable to a wide range of mouse models of neurologic disease.

Fiber delivered probe for efficient CARS imaging of tissues

We demonstrate a fiber-based probe for maximum collection of the coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) signal in biological tissues. We discuss the design challenges including capturing the backscattered forward generated CARS signal in the sample and the effects of fiber nonlinearities on the propagating pulses. Three different single mode fibers (fused silica fiber, photonic crystal fiber and double-clad photonic crystal fiber) were tested for the probe design. We investigated self-phase modulation, stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) and four-wave-mixing (FWM) generation in the fiber: nonlinear processes expected to occur in a two-beam excitation based probe. While SPM and SRS induced spectral broadening was negligible, a strong non phase-matched FWM contribution was found to be present in all the tested fibers for excitation conditions relevant to CARS microscopy of tissues. To spectrally suppress this strong contribution, the pro design incorporates separate fibers for excitation light delivery and for signal detection, in combination with dichroic optics. CARS images of the samples were recorded by collecting the back-scattered forward generated CARS signal in the sample through a multi-mode fiber. Different biological tissues were imaged ex vivo in order to assess the performance of our fiber-delivered probe for CARS imaging, a tool which we consider an important advance towards label-free, in vivo probing of superficial tissues.

Visually evoked activity in cortical cells imaged in freely moving animals

We describe a miniaturized head-mounted multiphoton microscope and its use for recording Ca(2+) transients from the somata of layer 2/3 neurons in the visual cortex of awake, freely moving rats. Images contained up to 20 neurons and were stable enough to record continuously for >5 min per trial and 20 trials per imaging session, even as the animal was running at velocities of up to 0.6 m/s. Neuronal Ca(2+) transients were readily detected, and responses to various static visual stimuli were observed during free movement on a running track. Neuronal activity was sparse and increased when the animal swept its gaze across a visual stimulus. Neurons showing preferential activation by specific stimuli were observed in freely moving animals. These results demonstrate that the multiphoton fiberscope is suitable for functional imaging in awake and freely moving animals.

Optical probing of neuronal ensemble activity

Neural computations are implemented in densely interconnected networks of excitable neurons as temporal sequences of coactive neuronal ensembles. Ensemble activity is produced by the interaction of external stimuli with internal states but has been difficult to directly study in the past. Currently, high-resolution optical imaging techniques are emerging as powerful tools to investigate neuronal ensembles in living animals and to characterize their spatiotemporal properties. Here we review recent advances of two-photon calcium imaging and highlight ongoing technical improvements as well as emerging applications. Significant progress has been made in the extent and speed of imaging and in the adaptation of imaging techniques to awake animals. These advances facilitate studies of the functional organization of local neural networks, their experience-dependent reconfiguration, and their functional impairment in diseases. Optical probing of neuronal ensemble dynamics in vivo thus promises to reveal fundamental principles of neural circuit function and dysfunction.

Advances in light microscopy for neuroscience

Since the work of Golgi and Cajal, light microscopy has remained a key tool for neuroscientists to observe cellular properties. Ongoing advances have enabled new experimental capabilities using light to inspect the nervous system across multiple spatial scales, including ultrastructural scales finer than the optical diffraction limit. Other progress permits functional imaging at faster speeds, at greater depths in brain tissue, and over larger tissue volumes than previously possible. Portable, miniaturized fluorescence microscopes now allow brain imaging in freely behaving mice. Complementary progress on animal preparations has enabled imaging in head-restrained behaving animals, as well as time-lapse microscopy studies in the brains of live subjects. Mouse genetic approaches permit mosaic and inducible fluorescence-labeling strategies, whereas intrinsic contrast mechanisms allow in vivo imaging of animals and humans without use of exogenous markers. This review surveys such advances and highlights emerging capabilities of particular interest to neuroscientists.

Rotational multiphoton endoscopy with a 1 microm fiber laser system

We present multiphoton microendoscopy with a rotational probe and a 1 microm fiber-based femtosecond laser. The rotational probe is based on a double-clad photonic crystal fiber, a gradient index lens, a microprism, and a rotational microelectronicmechanical system (MEMS) motor. The MEMS motor has a diameter of 2.2 mm and can provide 360 degrees full-view rotation. The fiber laser provides ultrashort pulses with a central wavelength at 1.034 microm and a repetition rate of 50 MHz. Second-harmonic-generation images of rat-tail tendon and fish scale are demonstrated with the rotational probe-based multiphoton system.

In vivo brain imaging using a portable 2.9 g two-photon microscope based on a microelectromechanical systems scanning mirror

We present a two-photon microscope that is approximately 2.9 g in mass and 2.0 x 1.9 x 1.1 cm(3) in size and based on a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) laser-scanning mirror. The microscope has a focusing motor and a micro-optical assembly composed of four gradient refractive index lenses and a dichroic microprism. Fluorescence is captured without the detected emissions reflecting off the MEMS mirror, by use of separate optical fibers for fluorescence collection and delivery of ultrashort excitation pulses. Using this microscope we imaged neocortical microvasculature and tracked the flow of erythrocytes in live mice.

Invited review article: Imaging techniques for harmonic and multiphoton absorption fluorescence microscopy

We review the current state of multiphoton microscopy. In particular, the requirements and limitations associated with high-speed multiphoton imaging are considered. A description of the different scanning technologies such as line scan, multifoci approaches, multidepth microscopy, and novel detection techniques is given. The main nonlinear optical contrast mechanisms employed in microscopy are reviewed, namely, multiphoton excitation fluorescence, second harmonic generation, and third harmonic generation. Techniques for optimizing these nonlinear mechanisms through a careful measurement of the spatial and temporal characteristics of the focal volume are discussed, and a brief summary of photobleaching effects is provided. Finally, we consider three new applications of multiphoton microscopy: nonlinear imaging in microfluidics as applied to chemical analysis and the use of two-photon absorption and self-phase modulation as contrast mechanisms applied to imaging problems in the medical sciences.

Optical imaging as a link between cellular neurophysiology and circuit modeling

The relatively simple and highly modular circuitry of the cerebellum raised expectations decades ago that a realistic computational model of cerebellar circuit operations would be feasible, and prove insightful for unraveling cerebellar information processing. To this end, the biophysical properties of most cerebellar cell types and their synaptic connections have been well characterized and integrated into realistic single cell models. Furthermore, large scale models of cerebellar circuits that extrapolate from single cell properties to circuit dynamics have been constructed. While the development of single cell models have been constrained by microelectrode recordings, guidance and validation as these models are scaled up to study network interactions requires an experimental methodology capable of monitoring cerebellar dynamics at the population level. Here we review the potential of optical imaging techniques to serve this purpose.

Rigid and high-numerical-aperture two-photon fluorescence endoscope

We present a rigid miniaturized optical system block fiber-optic two-photon endoscope based on a compact two-axis piezo scanner system and a miniature high (0.65) NA GRIN lens objective. The optical system is scanned as a whole by a piezo scanner allowing always an on-axis beam irradiation of the optical system. A photonic crystal fiber is used for excitation and ultrashort laser pulses can be delivered with typical power up to 100 mW at 800 nm. Two-photon fluorescence signal is collected by the use of a multimode fiber. Lateral resolution values for the system were experimentally measured to be 0.67 microm vertically and 1.08 microm horizontally. Axial resolution was found to be 5.8 microm. The endoscope is highly flexible and controllable in terms of time acquisition, resolution, and magnification. Fluorescence images were acquired over a 420 microm x 420 microm field of view. Results presented here demonstrate the ability of the system to resolve subcellular details and the potential of the technology for in vivo applications.

In vivo fluorescence imaging with high-resolution microlenses

Micro-optics are increasingly used for minimally invasive in vivo imaging, in miniaturized microscopes and in lab-on-a-chip devices. Owing to optical aberrations and lower numerical apertures, a main class of microlens, gradient refractive index lenses, has not achieved resolution comparable to conventional microscopy. Here we describe high-resolution microlenses, and illustrate two-photon imaging of dendritic spines on hippocampal neurons and dual-color nonlinear optical imaging of neuromuscular junctions in live mice.

A 0.4-mm-diameter probe for nonlinear optical imaging

A miniaturized probe that possesses a diameter of 0.4 mm is developed for two-photon-excited fluorescence imaging. The miniaturized probe was manufactured by the collapse of air holes and the formation of a lens on the tip of a double-clad photonic crystal fiber (DCPCF) using electric arc discharging from a conventional fusion splicer. As a result, a femtosecond pulsed laser beam delivered by the DCPCF can be directly focused on a sample for two-photon fluorescence imaging. The numerical aperture of the lensed DCPCF is 0.12. The corresponding focal spot size is 6 microm, which is close to the diffraction limit. This 0.4-mm-diamter probe can provide clear two-photon-excited fluorescence images of 10-microm-diameter fluorescent microspheres.

Design and implementation of fiber-based multiphoton endoscopy with microelectromechanical systems scanning

A multiphoton endoscopy system has been developed using a two-axis microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) mirror and double-cladding photonic crystal fiber (DCPCF). The MEMS mirror has a 2-mm-diam, 20-deg optical scanning angle, and 1.26-kHz and 780-Hz resonance frequencies on the x and y axes. The maximum number of resolvable focal spots of the MEMS scanner is 720 x 720 on the x and y axes, which indicates that the MEMS scanner can potentially support high-resolution multiphoton imaging. The DCPCF is compared with standard single-mode fiber and hollow-core photonic bandgap fiber on the basis of dispersion, attenuation, and coupling efficiency properties. The DCPCF has high collection efficiency, and its dispersion can be compensated by grating pairs. Three configurations of probe design are investigated, and their imaging quality and field of view are compared. A two-lens configuration with a collimation and a focusing lens provides the optimum imaging performance and packaging flexibility. The endoscope is applied to image fluorescent microspheres and bovine knee joint cartilage.

Developing compact multiphoton systems using femtosecond fiber lasers

We implement a fiber-delivered compact femtosecond fiber laser at 1,030-nm wavelength in multiphoton imaging. The laser pulse duration is 150 fs, the average power is 200 mW, and the repetition rate is 40 MHz. The laser measures 200 x 160 x 45 mm in size and its output is delivered through a photonic bandgap fiber. Intrinsic second-harmonic generation signal is excited from rat tail tendon and human skin samples. Two-photon excited fluorescence signal is obtained from human skin tissues stained with exogenous fluorophore. Our results show that femtosecond fiber lasers at 1030-nm wavelength have significant potential in developing compact, all-fiber-based, portable multiphoton systems and endoscopes.

Enhanced fluorescence signal in nonlinear microscopy through supplementary fiber-optic light collection

Nonlinear microscopy techniques crucially rely on efficient signal detection. Here, we present a ring of large-core optical fibers for epi-collection of fluorescence photons that are not transmitted through the objective and thus normally wasted. Theoretical treatments indicated that such a supplementary fiber-optic light collection system (SUFICS) can provide an up to 4-fold signal gain. In typical in vivo imaging experiments, the fiber-ring channel was brighter than the objective channel down to 800 microm depth, thus providing a gain >2. Moreover, SUFICS reduced noise levels in calcium imaging experiments by about 23%. We recommend SUFICS as a generally applicable, effective add-on to nonlinear microscopes for enhancing fluorescence signals.

Reduction of self-phase modulation in double-clad photonic crystal fiber for nonlinear optical endoscopy

Double-clad photonic crystal fiber and double-clad fiber have been widely used in multiphoton-excited fluorescence or second-harmonic generation (SHG) endoscopy. We provide a useful comparison of two fibers used in nonlinear optical microendoscopy. While a double-clad fiber is found to have a higher percentage of the output power from its core, which results in the efficient utilization of the power of the excitation laser, a double-clad photonic crystal fiber has a higher threshold of the nonlinearity, which effectively reduces the self-modulation effect and thus leads to a higher degree of polarization of the excitation beam. Consequently, the use of the double-clad photonic crystal fiber facilitates bright two-photon fluorescence imaging as well as polarized SHG imaging.

Nonlinear optical endoscope based on a compact two axes piezo scanner and a miniature objective lens

We report on a nonlinear optical endoscope that adopts a hollow core photonic crystal fiber for single-mode illumination delivery and a multimode one for signal collection. Femtosecond laser pulses up to 100 mW can be delivered at a centered wavelength of 800 nm. The two-photon fluorescence response of our system is shown to have axial and lateral resolutions of 5.8 microm and 0.6 microm respectively. Fluorescence detection was obtained at different wavelengths between 790 and 840 nm which could allow SHG detection for example. The maximal field-of-view of the acquired images is 420 microm x 420 microm. Detection efficiency is greater by using an avalanche photodiode in comparison to a photo multiplier tube. Results presented here demonstrate the ability of the system to resolve cellular details and the potential of the device for future in vivo imaging diagnosis.

Optical contrast agents and imaging systems for detection and diagnosis of cancer

Molecular imaging has rapidly emerged as a discipline with the potential to impact fundamental biomedical research and clinical practice. Within this field, optical imaging offers several unique capabilities, based on the ability of cells and tissues to effect quantifiable changes in the properties of visible and near-infrared light. Beyond endogenous optical properties, the development of molecularly targeted contrast agents enables disease-specific morphologic and biochemical processes to be labeled with unique optical signatures. Optical imaging systems can then provide real-time visualization of pathophysiology at spatial scales from the subcellular to whole organ levels. In this article, we review fundamental techniques and recent developments in optical molecular imaging, emphasizing laboratory and clinical systems that aim to visualize the microscopic and macroscopic hallmarks of cancer.

Delivery of sub-10-fs pulses for nonlinear optical microscopy by polarization-maintaining single mode optical fiber

Broadband, sub-10-fs pulses, can be propagated through polarization-maintaining single mode fiber (PMF) for use in nonlinear optical microscopy (NLOM). We demonstrate delivery of near transform-limited, 1 nJ pulses from a Ti:Al(2)O(3) (75 MHz repetition rate) oscillator via PMF to the NLOM focal plane while maintaining 120 nm of bandwidth. Negative group delay dispersion (GDD) introduced to pre-compensate normal dispersion of the optical fiber and microscope optics ensured linear pulse propagation through the PMF. The minimized time-bandwidth product of the laser pulses at the NLOM focus allowed the nonlinear excitation of multiple fluorophores simultaneously without central wavelength tuning. Polarization sensitive NLOM imaging using second harmonic generation in collagen was demonstrated using PMF delivered pulses. Two-photon excited fluorescence spectra and second harmonic images taken with and without the fiber indicates that the fiber based system is capable of generating optical signals that are within a factor of two to three of our traditional NLOM.