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Scanless temporal focusing enables high-speed three-dimensional quantitative phase microscopy
Yuechuan Lin1,2, Xiang Zhang2,3, Rebecca E Zubajlo2,3
1Laser Biomedical Research Center, G. R. Harrison Spectroscopy Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
Biorxiv : the Preprint Server for Biology
|March 23, 2026
Summary
Quantitative phase microscopy (QPM) now offers high-speed, 3D imaging. This new temporal focusing QPM (TF-QPM) provides label-free, volumetric imaging with exceptional resolution and speed.
Area of Science:
- Optical imaging
- Biophysics
- Microscopy
Background:
- Quantitative phase microscopy (QPM) is crucial for label-free imaging.
- High-speed, 3D QPM with strong optical sectioning remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- Introduce a novel single-shot reflection-mode temporal focusing QPM (TF-QPM).
- Enable high-speed, 3D label-free phase-sensitive volumetric imaging with sub-micron optical sectioning.
Main Methods:
- Extended temporal focusing principles for QPM.
- Developed a scanless, single-shot reflection-mode TF-QPM system.
- Utilized diffraction-limited imaging for phase-sensitive volumetric data.
Main Results:
- Achieved 402 nm lateral and 920 nm axial resolution.
- Demonstrated depth-resolved imaging at 3,709 Hz frame rate.
- Enabled precise 3D particle tracking and characterization of fast dynamics.
Conclusions:
- TF-QPM is a scanless, high-speed platform for label-free volumetric imaging.
- Offers histology-level resolution in intact tissues with virtual staining capabilities.
- Provides a rapid alternative to conventional sectioning-based workflows for research and translational applications.
