Quantitative performance characterization of three-dimensional noncontact fluorescence molecular tomography

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Imaging
• Molecular Imaging
• Optical Imaging

Background:

• Fluorescent probes are vital for studying biological processes in vivo.
• Current in vivo imaging methods have limitations in scope and application range.
• Advanced imaging platforms are needed for precise quantification and broad spectral coverage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To rigorously characterize a custom-built horizontal noncontact fluorescence molecular tomography (FMT) setup.
• To evaluate the performance of the FMT system across the visible spectrum for in vivo applications.
• To demonstrate the system's capability for quantitative 3D reconstruction of fluorophore distribution.

Main Methods:

• Developed and implemented a noncontact FMT system with a horizontal configuration.
• Evaluated dynamic range, sensitivity, and quantitative accuracy using fluorophores (520-660 nm).
• Assessed performance for detecting mesenteric lymph nodes and comparing fluorescent reporters in cell culture.

Main Results:

• The custom-built FMT system demonstrated high-performance quantitative capabilities in the visible spectrum.
• Successful in vivo detection of challenging targets, such as mesenteric lymph nodes, was achieved.
• The system enabled accurate comparison of spectrally distinct fluorescent reporters in cell culture.

Conclusions:

• High-performance quantitative 3D visible light FMT is feasible and valuable for biomedical research.
• The developed noncontact FMT setup extends the capabilities of in vivo molecular imaging.
• This technology facilitates deeper understanding of biological dynamics and disease processes.