Ultrahigh-resolution, high-speed spectral domain optical coherence phase microscopy

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Optics
• Microscopy
• Optical Coherence Tomography

Background:

• Traditional common-path interferometers in microscopy have limitations in transverse spatial resolution and detection sensitivity.
• Phase stability is crucial for accurate optical path length measurements in biological imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an ultrahigh-resolution, high-speed spectral domain optical coherence phase microscopy (SD-OCPM) system.
• To overcome the limitations of traditional common-path interferometers for enhanced imaging capabilities.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a novel spectral domain optical coherence phase microscopy (SD-OCPM) setup.
• Achieving high-speed data acquisition exceeding 217,000 voxels/s.
• Characterization of transverse and axial spatial resolution and phase sensitivity.

Main Results:

• Submicrometer transverse spatial resolution (0.6 μm) and 1.9 μm axial spatial resolution achieved.
• High optical path length sensitivity of 110 pm (0.0027 rad phase sensitivity).
• Maintained phase stability comparable to common-path interferometer setups.

Conclusions:

• The developed SD-OCPM system provides significant improvements in resolution and sensitivity.
• Enables high-speed, phase-sensitive 4D imaging of biological samples at the subcellular level.
• Offers a powerful tool for advanced biomedical research and diagnostics.