Advanced optics to unlock large field-of-view multiphoton imaging for neuroscience and beyond

Project summary Currently available optical components limit biomedical imaging. In particular, in neurobiology, standard microscope components limit the field-of-view and speed of imaging of neuronal activity. Through prior work on BRAIN Initiative project, we have developed approaches for new optical components that expand the field-of-view 5 to 50 times over standard microscopes, with no loss in resolution, while retaining high imaging speed. In this project, we will develop three new products to further impact this field, enabling better imaging systems, higher quality data, and new experiments. The three products are: (Aim 1) a new long working distance air objective with high resolution, (Aim 2) a high performance scan lens for large field-of-view imaging, and (Aim 3) an angle-doubling module for large field-of-view imaging with no loss in scan speed. The company will perform the design studies and development. The company will partner with the university lab to validate and evaluate the products in state-of-the-art experiments. The results from this project will result in innovative new optical components that will expand the field-of-view and throughput of imaging systems in neurobiology labs.