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Multimodal Functional Analysis Platform: 1. Ultrathin Fluorescence Endoscope Imaging System Enables Flexible
Makoto Osanai1,2,3, Hideki Miwa4,5, Atsushi Tamura6,7
1Laboratory for Physiological Functional Imaging, Department of Medical Physics and Engineering, Division of Health Sciences, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Japan. osanai@sahs.med.osaka-u.ac.jp.
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|January 5, 2021
Summary
We developed an ultrathin fluorescence endoscope imaging system (U-FEIS) for deep brain imaging. This tool visualizes neurons and records activity with single-cell resolution, advancing neuroscience research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
- Optical Imaging
Background:
- Understanding brain function requires advanced imaging techniques.
- Existing methods may be invasive or limited in depth.
- Need for high-resolution tools to observe neural activity in vivo.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an ultrathin fluorescence endoscope imaging system (U-FEIS).
- To enable deep brain imaging with minimal invasion.
- To visualize and record neuronal activity at single-cell resolution.
Main Methods:
- Designed an endoscope with a GRIN lens and a 450 μm image fiber.
- Developed a compact, specialized microscope optimized for the endoscope.
- Utilized U-FEIS for in vitro and in vivo imaging of GFP-expressing neurons.
Main Results:
- Achieved single-cell resolution imaging of neurons.
- Successfully recorded multineuronal activities.
- Demonstrated simultaneous imaging and optical stimulation capabilities.
Conclusions:
- U-FEIS is a powerful tool for neuroscience research.
- Minimally invasive deep brain imaging is now feasible.
- Enables detailed study of neural circuits and functions.
