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

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Microscopy

Background:

• Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman Scattering (CARS) microscopy offers label-free chemical imaging.
• Miniaturization of advanced microscopy techniques is crucial for in vivo applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate a novel miniaturized multimodal CARS microscope.
• To enable simultaneous CARS, two-photon excitation fluorescence (TPEF), and second harmonic generation (SHG) imaging.

Main Methods:

• Utilized microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) scanning mirrors and custom miniature optics.
• Employed a single Ti:sapphire femtosecond pulsed laser as the light source.
• Integrated CARS, TPEF, and SHG imaging modalities.

Main Results:

• Achieved high-resolution and distortion-free multimodal imaging.
• Successfully imaged various samples including a USAF target, microspheres, and biological tissue.
• Demonstrated proof of concept for the miniaturized microscope.

Conclusions:

• The developed miniaturized multimodal CARS microscope is a viable technology.
• This technology enables advanced imaging for diverse applications.
• Paves the way for handheld probes for non- or minimally-invasive in vivo imaging.