Multi-modality optical imaging of single-cell dynamics using supercontinuum light source

Project Summary The objective of this study is to develop a multi-modality imaging platform that integrates complex phase microscopy (CPM) based on optical computation and fluorescence microscopy (FM). We will use the imaging platform to correlate the sub-cellular dynamic motion and intracellular properties to study cell adhesion which plays an important role in many aspects of cell behavior. This study is significant for fundamental research, preclinical and clinical study, and technology development. By simultaneously imaging cell motion and organelle properties, CPM-FM enables the investigation of cell dynamics in correlation biomolecular characteristics. CPM-FM investigation of cell adhesion will result in better understanding of pathophysiology of different diseases, open the door to new methods for disease treatment and early diagnosis, lead to the development biomaterials that need specific interaction with cells, and benefit patients and clinicians. This study will also establish the feasibility of CPM as an imaging technology that allows non-invasive, and continuous monitoring of cell activities without contrast agents. Particularly, a supercontinuum light source with broad bandwidth, high spatial coherence and large output power will be acquired and used as the light source for the imaging system, to achieve nanoscale displacement sensitivity, sub-micrometer level spatial resolution and rich molecular information from multiple fluorescence probes. The acquisition of the powerful light source is expected to enhance our research capability significantly.