Automated Laser-Fiber Coupling Module for Optical-Resolution Photoacoustic Microscopy

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Imaging
• Optical Physics
• Engineering

Background:

• Photoacoustic imaging visualizes optical absorption in tissues.
• Optical-resolution photoacoustic microscopy offers high spatial resolution.
• Efficient laser delivery is crucial for high-quality photoacoustic images.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an automated laser-fiber coupling module for optical-resolution photoacoustic microscopy.
• To optimize laser delivery and minimize manual intervention.
• To improve the efficiency and robustness of photoacoustic imaging systems.

Main Methods:

• Incorporation of a motor-mounted mirror holder for automated alignment.
• Implementation of proportional-derivative (PD) control for precise laser delivery.
• Evaluation using a leaf-skeleton phantom (in vitro) and a human finger (in vivo).

Main Results:

• Successful achievement of efficient and robust laser delivery.
• Demonstration of high-quality photoacoustic images from both phantom and in vivo samples.
• Significant reduction in the need for manual adjustments in the coupling process.

Conclusions:

• The automated laser-fiber coupling module enhances the quality and efficiency of optical-resolution photoacoustic microscopy.
• This innovation streamlines the setup process, making photoacoustic imaging more accessible.
• The system shows potential for broader applications in biomedical research and clinical diagnostics.