Miniaturized Head-Mount Doppler Optical Coherence Tomography Scope for Freely Moving Mouse

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Engineering
• Optical Imaging

Background:

• Noninvasive brain imaging in freely moving subjects is crucial for understanding neurological disorders.
• Existing imaging techniques can be invasive or restrict natural behavior.
• Advancements in optical coherence tomography (OCT) offer potential for high-resolution, depth-resolved imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a miniaturized, head-mount OCT system for high-resolution brain imaging in freely moving mice.
• To enable noninvasive, real-time visualization of brain structures and functions.
• To facilitate the study of brain mechanisms and neurological disorders without behavioral disruption.

Main Methods:

• Development of a 1.5 g head-mount optical coherence tomography (OCT) system.
• Integration of swept-source OCT laser operating at 200 kHz for high-speed imaging.
• Inclusion of functional OCT extensions: angiography and Doppler imaging.
• Features include a 4x4 mm field of view, 7.4 μm axial resolution, and focal adjustability.

Main Results:

• The system successfully achieved high-resolution, depth-resolved brain imaging in freely moving mice.
• Functional OCT capabilities (angiography, Doppler) were demonstrated.
• The lightweight design (1.5 g) ensured minimal impact on natural mouse behavior.
• Real-time imaging was facilitated by the 200 kHz laser and system design.

Conclusions:

• The miniaturized head-mount OCT system is a powerful, noninvasive tool for neuroscience research.
• It allows for in-vivo study of brain function and pathology in naturalistic conditions.
• This technology advances the ability to investigate neurological disorders and brain mechanisms.