1
|
Park J, Gao L. Advancements in fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy Instrumentation: Towards high speed and 3D. CURRENT OPINION IN SOLID STATE & MATERIALS SCIENCE 2024; 30:101147. [PMID: 39086551 PMCID: PMC11290093 DOI: 10.1016/j.cossms.2024.101147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) is a powerful imaging tool offering molecular specific insights into samples through the measurement of fluorescence decay time, with promising applications in diverse research fields. However, to acquire two-dimensional lifetime images, conventional FLIM relies on extensive scanning in both the spatial and temporal domain, resulting in much slower acquisition rates compared to intensity-based approaches. This problem is further magnified in three-dimensional imaging, as it necessitates additional scanning along the depth axis. Recent advancements have aimed to enhance the speed and three-dimensional imaging capabilities of FLIM. This review explores the progress made in addressing these challenges and discusses potential directions for future developments in FLIM instrumentation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jongchan Park
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90025, USA
| | - Liang Gao
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90025, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chang DM, Hsu HH, Ko PL, Chang WJ, Hsieh TH, Wu HM, Tung YC. Rapid time-lapse 3D oxygen tension measurements within hydrogels using widefield frequency-domain fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FD-FLIM) and image segmentation. Analyst 2024; 149:1727-1737. [PMID: 38375547 DOI: 10.1039/d3an01625k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the influence of oxygen tension on cellular functions and behaviors is crucial for investigating various physiological and pathological conditions. In vitro cell culture models, particularly those based on hydrogel extracellular matrices, have been developed to study cellular responses in specific oxygen microenvironments. However, accurately characterizing oxygen tension variations with great spatiotemporal resolutions, especially in three dimensions, remains challenging. This paper presents an approach for rapid time-lapse 3D oxygen tension measurements in hydrogels using a widely available inverted fluorescence microscope. Oxygen-sensitive fluorescent microbeads and widefield frequency-domain fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FD-FLIM) are utilized for oxygen tension estimation. To incorporate the third dimension, a motorized sample stage is implanted that enables automated image acquisition in the vertical direction. A machine learning algorithm based on K-means clustering is employed for microbead position identification. Using an upside-down microfluidic device, 3D oxygen gradients are generated within a hydrogel sample, and z-stack images are acquired using the FD-FLIM system. Analyses of the acquired images, involving microbead position identification, lifetime calculation, and oxygen tension conversion, are then performed offline. The results demonstrate the functionality of the developed approach for rapid time-lapse 3D oxygen tension measurements in hydrogels. Furthermore, the 3D oxygen tension adjacent to a tumor spheroid within a hydrogel during media exchange is characterized. The results further confirm that the 3D spatiotemporal oxygen tension profiles can be successfully measured quantitatively using the established setup and analysis process and that the approach may have great potential for investigating cellular activities within oxygen microenvironments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dao-Ming Chang
- Research Center for Applied Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan.
| | - Heng-Hua Hsu
- Research Center for Applied Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan.
- Department of Engineering and System Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan
| | - Ping-Liang Ko
- Research Center for Applied Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan.
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Jen Chang
- Institute of Biophotonics, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Tung-Han Hsieh
- Research Center for Applied Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan.
| | - Hsiao-Mei Wu
- Research Center for Applied Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan.
- Department of Biomechatronics Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan.
| | - Yi-Chung Tung
- Research Center for Applied Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Harel M, Arbiv U, Ankri R. Multiplexed near infrared fluorescence lifetime imaging in turbid media. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2024; 29:026004. [PMID: 38425720 PMCID: PMC10902792 DOI: 10.1117/1.jbo.29.2.026004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Significance Fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLI) plays a pivotal role in enhancing our understanding of biological systems, providing a valuable tool for non-invasive exploration of biomolecular and cellular dynamics, both in vitro and in vivo. Its ability to selectively target and multiplex various entities, alongside heightened sensitivity and specificity, offers rapid and cost-effective insights. Aim Our aim is to investigate the multiplexing capabilities of near-infrared (NIR) FLI within a scattering medium that mimics biological tissues. We strive to develop a comprehensive understanding of FLI's potential for multiplexing diverse targets within a complex, tissue-like environment. Approach We introduce an innovative Monte Carlo (MC) simulation approach that accurately describes the scattering behavior of fluorescent photons within turbid media. Applying phasor analyses, we enable the multiplexing of distinct targets within a single FLI image. Leveraging the state-of-the-art single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) time-gated camera, SPAD512S, we conduct experimental wide-field FLI in the NIR regime. Results Our study demonstrates the successful multiplexing of dual targets within a single FLI image, reaching a depth of 1 cm within tissue-like phantoms. Through our novel MC simulation approach and phasor analyses, we showcase the effectiveness of our methodology in overcoming the challenges posed by scattering media. Conclusions This research underscores the potential of NIR FLI for multiplexing applications in complex biological environments. By combining advanced simulation techniques with cutting-edge experimental tools, we introduce significant results in the non-invasive exploration of biomolecular dynamics, to advance the field of FLI research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meital Harel
- Ariel University, Department of Physics, Faculty of Natural Science, Ariel, Israel
| | - Uri Arbiv
- Ariel University, Department of Physics, Faculty of Natural Science, Ariel, Israel
| | - Rinat Ankri
- Ariel University, Department of Physics, Faculty of Natural Science, Ariel, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Alexiev U, Rühl E. Visualization of Nanocarriers and Drugs in Cells and Tissue. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2024; 284:153-189. [PMID: 37566121 DOI: 10.1007/164_2023_684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
In this chapter, the visualization of nanocarriers and drugs in cells and tissue is reviewed. This topic is tightly connected to modern drug delivery, which relies on nanoscopic drug formulation approaches and the ability to probe nanoparticulate systems selectively in cells and tissue using advanced spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. We first give an overview of the breadth of this research field. Then, we mainly focus on topical drug delivery to the skin and discuss selected visualization techniques from spectromicroscopy, such as scanning transmission X-ray microscopy and fluorescence lifetime imaging. These techniques rely on the sensitive and quantitative detection of the topically applied drug delivery systems and active substances, either by exploiting their molecular properties or by introducing environmentally sensitive probes that facilitate their detection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Alexiev
- Fachbereich Physik, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Eckart Rühl
- Physikalische Chemie, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Barroso M, Monaghan MG, Niesner R, Dmitriev RI. Probing organoid metabolism using fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM): The next frontier of drug discovery and disease understanding. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 201:115081. [PMID: 37647987 PMCID: PMC10543546 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Organoid models have been used to address important questions in developmental and cancer biology, tissue repair, advanced modelling of disease and therapies, among other bioengineering applications. Such 3D microenvironmental models can investigate the regulation of cell metabolism, and provide key insights into the mechanisms at the basis of cell growth, differentiation, communication, interactions with the environment and cell death. Their accessibility and complexity, based on 3D spatial and temporal heterogeneity, make organoids suitable for the application of novel, dynamic imaging microscopy methods, such as fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) and related decay time-assessing readouts. Several biomarkers and assays have been proposed to study cell metabolism by FLIM in various organoid models. Herein, we present an expert-opinion discussion on the principles of FLIM and PLIM, instrumentation and data collection and analysis protocols, and general and emerging biosensor-based approaches, to highlight the pioneering work being performed in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margarida Barroso
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
| | - Michael G Monaghan
- Department of Mechanical, Manufacturing and Biomedical Engineering, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 02, Ireland
| | - Raluca Niesner
- Dynamic and Functional In Vivo Imaging, Freie Universität Berlin and Biophysical Analytics, German Rheumatism Research Center, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ruslan I Dmitriev
- Tissue Engineering and Biomaterials Group, Department of Human Structure and Repair, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Ghent Light Microscopy Core, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Dubois C, Houel-Renault L, Erard M, Boustany NN, Westbrook N. Förster resonance energy transfer efficiency measurements on vinculin tension sensors at focal adhesions using a simple and cost-effective setup. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2023; 28:082808. [PMID: 37441563 PMCID: PMC10335361 DOI: 10.1117/1.jbo.28.8.082808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Significance Forces inside cells play a fundamental role in tissue growth, affecting important processes such as cancer cell migration or tissue repair after injury. Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based tension sensors are a remarkable tool for studying these forces and should be made easier to use. Aim We prove that absolute FRET efficiency can be measured on a simple setup, an order of magnitude more cost-effective than a standard FRET microscopy setup, by applying it to vinculin tension sensors (VinTS) at the focal adhesions of live CHO-K1 cells. Approach Our setup located at Université Paris-Saclay acquires donor and acceptor fluorescence in parallel on two low-cost CMOS cameras and uses two LEDs for rapid switching of the excitation wavelength at a reduced cost. The calibration required to extract FRET efficiency was achieved using a single construct (TSMod). FRET efficiencies were measured for VinTS and the tail-less control VinTL, lacking the actin-binding domain of vinculin. Measurements were confirmed on the same cell type using a more standard intensity-based setup located at Rutgers University. Results The average FRET efficiency of VinTS (22.0 % ± 4 % ) over more than 10,000 focal adhesions is significantly lower (p < 10 - 6 ) than that of VinTL (30.4 % ± 5 % ), our control that is insensitive to force, in agreement with the force exerted on vinculin at focal adhesions. Attachment of the CHO-K1 cells on fibronectin decreases FRET efficiency, thus increasing the force, compared with poly-lysine. FRET efficiency for the VinTL control is consistent with all measurements currently available in the literature, confirming the validity of our measurements and hence of our simpler setup. Conclusions Force measurements, resolved spatially inside a cell, can be achieved using FRET-based tension sensors with a cost effective intensity-based setup. This will facilitate combining FRET with techniques for applying controlled forces such as optical tweezers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Dubois
- Université Paris-Saclay, Institut d’Optique Graduate School, CNRS, Laboratoire Charles Fabry, Palaiseau, France
| | - Ludivine Houel-Renault
- Université Paris-Saclay, Institut des Sciences Moléculaires d’Orsay, CNRS, Centre de Photonique pour la Biologie et les Matériaux, Orsay, France
| | - Marie Erard
- Université Paris-Saclay, Institut de Chimie Physique, CNRS, Orsay, France
| | - Nada N. Boustany
- Rutgers University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States
| | - Nathalie Westbrook
- Université Paris-Saclay, Institut d’Optique Graduate School, CNRS, Laboratoire Charles Fabry, Palaiseau, France
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Samimi K, Desa DE, Lin W, Weiss K, Li J, Huisken J, Miskolci V, Huttenlocher A, Chacko JV, Velten A, Rogers JD, Eliceiri KW, Skala MC. Light-sheet autofluorescence lifetime imaging with a single-photon avalanche diode array. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2023; 28:066502. [PMID: 37351197 PMCID: PMC10284079 DOI: 10.1117/1.jbo.28.6.066502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Significance Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) of the metabolic co-enzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (phosphate) [NAD(P)H] is a popular method to monitor single-cell metabolism within unperturbed, living 3D systems. However, FLIM of NAD(P)H has not been performed in a light-sheet geometry, which is advantageous for rapid imaging of cells within live 3D samples. Aim We aim to design, validate, and demonstrate a proof-of-concept light-sheet system for NAD(P)H FLIM. Approach A single-photon avalanche diode camera was integrated into a light-sheet microscope to achieve optical sectioning and limit out-of-focus contributions for NAD(P)H FLIM of single cells. Results An NAD(P)H light-sheet FLIM system was built and validated with fluorescence lifetime standards and with time-course imaging of metabolic perturbations in pancreas cancer cells with 10 s integration times. NAD(P)H light-sheet FLIM in vivo was demonstrated with live neutrophil imaging in a larval zebrafish tail wound also with 10 s integration times. Finally, the theoretical and practical imaging speeds for NAD(P)H FLIM were compared across laser scanning and light-sheet geometries, indicating a 30 × to 6 × acquisition speed advantage for the light sheet compared to the laser scanning geometry. Conclusions FLIM of NAD(P)H is feasible in a light-sheet geometry and is attractive for 3D live cell imaging applications, such as monitoring immune cell metabolism and migration within an organism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kayvan Samimi
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Danielle E. Desa
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Wei Lin
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Kurt Weiss
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Biochemistry, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Joe Li
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Jan Huisken
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- Georg-August-University Göttingen, Department of Biology and Psychology, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Veronika Miskolci
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Center for Cell Signaling, Newark, New Jersey, United States
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Newark, New Jersey, United States
| | - Anna Huttenlocher
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Pediatrics, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Jenu V. Chacko
- University of Wisconsin, Laboratory for Optical and Computational Instrumentation, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Andreas Velten
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, McPherson Eye Research Institute, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Jeremy D. Rogers
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, McPherson Eye Research Institute, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Kevin W. Eliceiri
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, Laboratory for Optical and Computational Instrumentation, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, McPherson Eye Research Institute, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Melissa C. Skala
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, McPherson Eye Research Institute, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Samimi K, Desa DE, Lin W, Weiss K, Li J, Huisken J, Miskolci V, Huttenlocher A, Chacko JV, Velten A, Rogers JD, Eliceiri KW, Skala1 MC. Light sheet autofluorescence lifetime imaging with a single photon avalanche diode array. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.01.526695. [PMID: 36778488 PMCID: PMC9915663 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.01.526695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Single photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array sensors can increase the imaging speed for fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) by transitioning from laser scanning to widefield geometries. While a SPAD camera in epi-fluorescence geometry enables widefield FLIM of fluorescently labeled samples, label-free imaging of single-cell autofluorescence is not feasible in an epi-fluorescence geometry because background fluorescence from out-of-focus features masks weak cell autofluorescence and biases lifetime measurements. Here, we address this problem by integrating the SPAD camera in a light sheet illumination geometry to achieve optical sectioning and limit out-of-focus contributions, enabling fast label-free FLIM of single-cell NAD(P)H autofluorescence. The feasibility of this NAD(P)H light sheet FLIM system was confirmed with time-course imaging of metabolic perturbations in pancreas cancer cells with 10 s integration times, and in vivo NAD(P)H light sheet FLIM was demonstrated with live neutrophil imaging in a zebrafish tail wound, also with 10 s integration times. Finally, the theoretical and practical imaging speeds for NAD(P)H FLIM were compared across laser scanning and light sheet geometries, indicating a 30X to 6X frame rate advantage for the light sheet compared to the laser scanning geometry. This light sheet system provides faster frame rates for 3D NAD(P)H FLIM for live cell imaging applications such as monitoring single cell metabolism and immune cell migration throughout an entire living organism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Wei Lin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kurt Weiss
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Joe Li
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jan Huisken
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biology and Psychology, Georg-August-University Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Veronika Miskolci
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Anna Huttenlocher
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jenu V. Chacko
- Laboratory for Optical and Computational Instrumentation, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Andreas Velten
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jeremy D. Rogers
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI, USA
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kevin W. Eliceiri
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI, USA
- Laboratory for Optical and Computational Instrumentation, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Melissa C. Skala1
- McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Three Dimensional Lifetime-Multiplex Tomography Based on Time-Gated Capturing of Near-Infrared Fluorescence Images. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12157721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
We report a computed tomography (CT) technique for mapping near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) lifetime as a multiplex three-dimensional (3D) imaging method, using a conventional NIR camera. This method is achieved by using a time-gated system composed of a pulsed laser and an NIR camera synchronized with a rotatable sample stage for NIRF-CT imaging. The fluorescence lifetimes in microsecond-order of lanthanides were mapped on reconstructed cross-sectional and 3D images, via back-projection of two-dimensional projected images acquired from multiple angles at each time point showing fluorescence decay. A method to select slopes (the observed decay rates in time-gated imaging) used for the lifetime calculation, termed as the slope comparison method, was developed for the accurate calculation of each pixel, resulting in reduction of image acquisition time. Time-gated NIRF-CT provides a novel choice for multiplex 3D observation of deep tissues in biology.
Collapse
|
10
|
Grist SM, Bennewith KL, Cheung KC. Oxygen Measurement in Microdevices. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY (PALO ALTO, CALIF.) 2022; 15:221-246. [PMID: 35696522 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-anchem-061020-111458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Oxygen plays a fundamental role in respiration and metabolism, and quantifying oxygen levels is essential in many environmental, industrial, and research settings. Microdevices facilitate the study of dynamic, oxygen-dependent effects in real time. This review is organized around the key needs for oxygen measurement in microdevices, including integrability into microfabricated systems; sensor dynamic range and sensitivity; spatially resolved measurements to map oxygen over two- or three-dimensional regions of interest; and compatibility with multimodal and multianalyte measurements. After a brief overview of biological readouts of oxygen, followed by oxygen sensor types that have been implemented in microscale devices and sensing mechanisms, this review presents select recent applications in organs-on-chip in vitro models and new sensor capabilities enabling oxygen microscopy, bioprocess manufacturing, and pharmaceutical industries. With the advancement of multiplexed, interconnected sensors and instruments and integration with industry workflows, intelligent microdevice-sensor systems including oxygen sensors will have further impact in environmental science, manufacturing, and medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha M Grist
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Centre for Blood Research, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada;
| | - Kevin L Bennewith
- Integrative Oncology Department, BC Cancer Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Karen C Cheung
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Centre for Blood Research, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada;
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bowman AJ, Kasevich MA. Resonant Electro-Optic Imaging for Microscopy at Nanosecond Resolution. ACS NANO 2021; 15:16043-16054. [PMID: 34546704 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.1c04470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
We demonstrate an electro-optic wide-field method to enable fluorescence lifetime microscopy (FLIM) with high throughput and single-molecule sensitivity. Resonantly driven Pockels cells are used to efficiently gate images at 39 MHz, allowing fluorescence lifetime to be captured on standard camera sensors. Lifetime imaging of single molecules is enabled in wide field with exposure times of less than 100 ms. This capability allows combination of wide-field FLIM with single-molecule super-resolution localization microscopy. Fast single-molecule dynamics such as FRET and molecular binding events are captured from wide-field images without prior spatial knowledge. A lifetime sensitivity of 1.9 times the photon shot-noise limit is achieved, and high throughput is shown by acquiring wide-field FLIM images with millisecond exposure and >108 photons per frame. Resonant electro-optic FLIM allows lifetime contrast in any wide-field microscopy method.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam J Bowman
- Physics Department, Stanford University, 382 Via Pueblo Mall, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Mark A Kasevich
- Physics Department, Stanford University, 382 Via Pueblo Mall, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Datta R, Gillette A, Stefely M, Skala MC. Recent innovations in fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy for biology and medicine. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2021; 26:JBO-210093-PER. [PMID: 34247457 PMCID: PMC8271181 DOI: 10.1117/1.jbo.26.7.070603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) measures the decay rate of fluorophores, thus providing insights into molecular interactions. FLIM is a powerful molecular imaging technique that is widely used in biology and medicine. AIM This perspective highlights some of the major advances in FLIM instrumentation, analysis, and biological and clinical applications that we have found impactful over the last year. APPROACH Innovations in FLIM instrumentation resulted in faster acquisition speeds, rapid imaging over large fields of view, and integration with complementary modalities such as single-molecule microscopy or light-sheet microscopy. There were significant developments in FLIM analysis with machine learning approaches to enhance processing speeds, fit-free techniques to analyze images without a priori knowledge, and open-source analysis resources. The advantages and limitations of these recent instrumentation and analysis techniques are summarized. Finally, applications of FLIM in the last year include label-free imaging in biology, ophthalmology, and intraoperative imaging, FLIM of new fluorescent probes, and lifetime-based Förster resonance energy transfer measurements. CONCLUSIONS A large number of high-quality publications over the last year signifies the growing interest in FLIM and ensures continued technological improvements and expanding applications in biomedical research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rupsa Datta
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Amani Gillette
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Matthew Stefely
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Melissa C. Skala
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- University of Wisconsin, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Madison, Wisconsin, United States
- Address all correspondence to Melissa C. Skala,
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Dong P, Stellmacher J, Bouchet LM, Nieke M, Kumar A, Osorio‐Blanco ER, Nagel G, Lohan SB, Teutloff C, Patzelt A, Schäfer‐Korting M, Calderón M, Meinke MC, Alexiev U. A Dual Fluorescence-Spin Label Probe for Visualization and Quantification of Target Molecules in Tissue by Multiplexed FLIM-EPR Spectroscopy. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:14938-14944. [PMID: 33544452 PMCID: PMC8251738 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202012852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Simultaneous visualization and concentration quantification of molecules in biological tissue is an important though challenging goal. The advantages of fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) for visualization, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy for quantification are complementary. Their combination in a multiplexed approach promises a successful but ambitious strategy because of spin label-mediated fluorescence quenching. Here, we solved this problem and present the molecular design of a dual label (DL) compound comprising a highly fluorescent dye together with an EPR spin probe, which also renders the fluorescence lifetime to be concentration sensitive. The DL can easily be coupled to the biomolecule of choice, enabling in vivo and in vitro applications. This novel approach paves the way for elegant studies ranging from fundamental biological investigations to preclinical drug research, as shown in proof-of-principle penetration experiments in human skin ex vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pin Dong
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and AllergologyCharité Universitätsmedizin Berlincorporate member of Freie Universität BerlinHumboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of HealthBerlinGermany
- Freie Universität BerlinInstitute of PharmacyBerlinGermany
| | - Johannes Stellmacher
- Freie Universität BerlinInstitute of Experimental PhysicsDepartment of PhysicsBerlinGermany
| | - Lydia M. Bouchet
- Freie Universität BerlinInstitute of Chemistry and BiochemistryBerlinGermany
| | - Marius Nieke
- Freie Universität BerlinInstitute of Experimental PhysicsDepartment of PhysicsBerlinGermany
- Humboldt-Universität zu BerlinInstitute of BiologyBerlinGermany
| | - Amit Kumar
- Freie Universität BerlinInstitute of Chemistry and BiochemistryBerlinGermany
| | | | - Gregor Nagel
- Freie Universität BerlinInstitute of Chemistry and BiochemistryBerlinGermany
| | - Silke B. Lohan
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and AllergologyCharité Universitätsmedizin Berlincorporate member of Freie Universität BerlinHumboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of HealthBerlinGermany
| | - Christian Teutloff
- Freie Universität BerlinInstitute of Experimental PhysicsDepartment of PhysicsBerlinGermany
| | - Alexa Patzelt
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and AllergologyCharité Universitätsmedizin Berlincorporate member of Freie Universität BerlinHumboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of HealthBerlinGermany
| | | | - Marcelo Calderón
- Freie Universität BerlinInstitute of Chemistry and BiochemistryBerlinGermany
- POLYMATFaculty of ChemistryUniversity of the Basque CountryUPV/EHU20018Donostia-San SebastiánSpain
- IKERBASQUEBasque Foundation for Science48013BilbaoSpain
| | - Martina C. Meinke
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and AllergologyCharité Universitätsmedizin Berlincorporate member of Freie Universität BerlinHumboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of HealthBerlinGermany
| | - Ulrike Alexiev
- Freie Universität BerlinInstitute of Experimental PhysicsDepartment of PhysicsBerlinGermany
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Dmitriev RI, Intes X, Barroso MM. Luminescence lifetime imaging of three-dimensional biological objects. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:1-17. [PMID: 33961054 PMCID: PMC8126452 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.254763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A major focus of current biological studies is to fill the knowledge gaps between cell, tissue and organism scales. To this end, a wide array of contemporary optical analytical tools enable multiparameter quantitative imaging of live and fixed cells, three-dimensional (3D) systems, tissues, organs and organisms in the context of their complex spatiotemporal biological and molecular features. In particular, the modalities of luminescence lifetime imaging, comprising fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLI) and phosphorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (PLIM), in synergy with Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) assays, provide a wealth of information. On the application side, the luminescence lifetime of endogenous molecules inside cells and tissues, overexpressed fluorescent protein fusion biosensor constructs or probes delivered externally provide molecular insights at multiple scales into protein-protein interaction networks, cellular metabolism, dynamics of molecular oxygen and hypoxia, physiologically important ions, and other physical and physiological parameters. Luminescence lifetime imaging offers a unique window into the physiological and structural environment of cells and tissues, enabling a new level of functional and molecular analysis in addition to providing 3D spatially resolved and longitudinal measurements that can range from microscopic to macroscopic scale. We provide an overview of luminescence lifetime imaging and summarize key biological applications from cells and tissues to organisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruslan I. Dmitriev
- Tissue Engineering and Biomaterials Group, Department of
Human Structure and Repair, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences,
Ghent University, Ghent 9000,
Belgium
| | - Xavier Intes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center for
Modeling, Simulation and Imaging for Medicine (CeMSIM),
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY
12180-3590, USA
| | - Margarida M. Barroso
- Department of Molecular and Cellular
Physiology, Albany Medical College,
Albany, NY 12208, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Liput DJ, Nguyen TA, Augustin SM, Lee JO, Vogel SS. A Guide to Fluorescence Lifetime Microscopy and Förster's Resonance Energy Transfer in Neuroscience. CURRENT PROTOCOLS IN NEUROSCIENCE 2020; 94:e108. [PMID: 33232577 PMCID: PMC8274369 DOI: 10.1002/cpns.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Fluorescence lifetime microscopy (FLIM) and Förster's resonance energy transfer (FRET) are advanced optical tools that neuroscientists can employ to interrogate the structure and function of complex biological systems in vitro and in vivo using light. In neurobiology they are primarily used to study protein-protein interactions, to study conformational changes in protein complexes, and to monitor genetically encoded FRET-based biosensors. These methods are ideally suited to optically monitor changes in neurons that are triggered optogenetically. Utilization of this technique by neuroscientists has been limited, since a broad understanding of FLIM and FRET requires familiarity with the interactions of light and matter on a quantum mechanical level, and because the ultra-fast instrumentation used to measure fluorescent lifetimes and resonance energy transfer are more at home in a physics lab than in a biology lab. In this overview, we aim to help neuroscientists overcome these obstacles and thus feel more comfortable with the FLIM-FRET method. Our goal is to aid researchers in the neuroscience community to achieve a better understanding of the fundamentals of FLIM-FRET and encourage them to fully leverage its powerful ability as a research tool. Published 2020. U.S. Government.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. Liput
- Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland
- Laboratory of Molecular Physiology, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Tuan A. Nguyen
- Laboratory of Biophotonics and Quantum Biology, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Shana M. Augustin
- Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Jeong Oen Lee
- Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland
| | - Steven S. Vogel
- Laboratory of Biophotonics and Quantum Biology, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland
- Corresponding author:
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Brodwolf R, Volz-Rakebrand P, Stellmacher J, Wolff C, Unbehauen M, Haag R, Schäfer-Korting M, Zoschke C, Alexiev U. Faster, sharper, more precise: Automated Cluster-FLIM in preclinical testing directly identifies the intracellular fate of theranostics in live cells and tissue. Theranostics 2020; 10:6322-6336. [PMID: 32483455 PMCID: PMC7255044 DOI: 10.7150/thno.42581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Fluorescence microscopy is widely used for high content screening in 2D cell cultures and 3D models. In particular, 3D tissue models are gaining major relevance in modern drug development. Enabling direct multiparametric evaluation of complex samples, fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) adds a further level to intensity imaging by the sensitivity of the fluorescence lifetime to the microenvironment. However, the use of FLIM is limited amongst others by the acquisition of sufficient photon numbers without phototoxic effects in live cells. Herein, we developed a new cluster-based analysis method to enhance insight, and significantly speed up analysis and measurement time for the accurate translation of fluorescence lifetime information into pharmacological pathways. Methods: We applied a fluorescently-labeled dendritic core-multishell nanocarrier and its cargo Bodipy as molecules of interest (MOI) to human cells and reconstructed human tissue. Following the sensitivity and specificity assessment of the fitting-free Cluster-FLIM analysis of data in silico and in vitro, we evaluated the dynamics of cellular molecule uptake and intracellular interactions. For 3D live tissue investigations, we applied multiphoton (mp) FLIM. Owing to Cluster-FLIM's statistics-based fitting-free analysis, we utilized this approach for automatization. Results: To discriminate the fluorescence lifetime signatures of 5 different fluorescence species in a single color channel, the Cluster-FLIM method requires only 170, respectively, 90 counts per pixel to obtain 95% sensitivity (hit rate) and 95% specificity (correct rejection rate). Cluster-FLIM revealed cellular interactions of MOIs, representing their spatiotemporal intracellular fate. In a setting of an automated workflow, the assessment of lysosomal trapping of the MOI revealed relevant differences between normal and tumor cells, as well as between 2D and 3D models. Conclusion: The automated Cluster-FLIM tool is fitting-free, providing images with enhanced information, contrast, and spatial resolution at short exposure times and low fluorophore concentrations. Thereby, Cluster-FLIM increases the applicability of FLIM in high content analysis of target molecules in drug development and beyond.
Collapse
|