Fluorescence hyperspectral imaging (fHSI) using a spectrally resolved detector array.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Optics
• Imaging Technology
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Traditional filter-based imaging limits resolution of multiple fluorescent signals in real-time applications like endoscopy.
• Existing hyperspectral imaging (HSI) instrumentation is often complex, bulky, and costly, hindering widespread adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a robust, low-cost HSI camera system for improved in vivo fluorescence imaging.
• To overcome the limitations of current filter-based and complex HSI systems.

Main Methods:

• Integration of a novel spectrally resolved detector array (SRDA) HSI camera into a wide-field, near-infrared reflectance imaging system.
• Assessment of the system's performance using fluorescent dyes in solution and tissue-mimicking phantoms.
• Demonstration of in vivo imaging capabilities.

Main Results:

• Accurate resolution of at least 7 fluorescent dyes in solution.
• High spectral unmixing precision and signal linearity with dye concentration and depth.
• Successful delineation of 4 fluorescent dyes in vivo.
• Demonstrated statistical background removal technique.

Conclusions:

• The developed fluorescence HSI (fHSI) system offers a low-cost, robust solution for resolving multiple fluorescent emissions.
• The approach shows potential for broader spectral ranges, including tissue reflectance and autofluorescence.
• Future tailoring for video-rate, snapshot HSI applications is feasible.