Multiwavelengths Laser Blood-Flowmetry/Oximerty for Monitoring of Angiogenesis

"Neoangiogenesis, the formation of new capillaries, is critical for normal healing of various injuries. The cross-sectional dimensions of the newly developed blood vessels range from one micron to tens of microns. Therefore, a technology with a very highspatial resolution is needed for angiogenesis monitoring. Current imaging technologies such as MRI and Doppler sonography provide spatial resolution just down to a few millimeters. To overcome these drawbacks, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposesto design and develop a novel Multiwavelength Laser Confocal Doppler Microscope (MLCDM). The MLCDM will be capable of performing simultaneous measurements of both blood flow velocity and blood oxygenation -- rapidly and with a spatial resolution down to20 microns. The combined measurement of both parameters will create an opportunity for a reliable monitoring of neovascularisation. POC's proposed MLCDM integrates laser Doppler flowmetry with oximetry and is designed on the basis of optical coherencetomography/confocal microscopy with an electronically tunable liquid crystal lens. The MLCDM prototype developed for superficial operation in Phase I will be adapted in Phase II for endoscopic applications. The proposed MLCDM will be at the forefront ofoptical diagnostic technologies that by mapping simultaneously blood flow velocity and oxygen concentration providing an indicative tool for neovascularization monitoring and hence, early