This invention presents a modular and portable imaging system designed to capture deep tissue and superficial cerebral blood flow in animal bodies. The system features a compact, modular multi-modality laser imaging design that allows mechanical integration of separate imaging modules on a common platform. It supports the integration of different modules along with live health monitoring of animals. The imaging system includes an imaging module mounted on a holding module for flexible configuration.
Figure (1) The small-animal imaging platform: (1a) CAD model of top module containing optics and (1b) printed module; (2) The setup for olfactory and somatosensory studies: (2a) the imaging platform, (2b) customizable stereotaxic frame for holding both mice and rats, (2c) region of brain studied
Current methods for imaging cerebral blood flow, like MRI and PET, are expensive and not easily accessible for continuous or real-time studies. Existing laser-based imaging systems for small animals tend to be large, complicated, and inflexible, making them hard to adapt for different experiments or animal types. Therefore, there is a strong need for a compact, portable, and modular imaging system that offers high-resolution, real-time cerebral blood flow imaging in small animals, while being easy to use and adaptable to various research needs.
- Modular and Portable Design: The imaging system is compact, modular, and portable, allowing easy adaptation to different experimental setups and animal models.
- Multi-Modality Laser Imaging: Integrates multiple laser sources (point, uniform, line) for imaging surface and deep tissue blood flow with high resolution and real-time capability.
- Integrated Imaging and Monitoring: Combines imaging devices with physiological monitoring tools such as pulse oximeter, temperature probes, and a stereotaxic frame for precise animal positioning.
- Real-Time Data Processing: On-board single-board computer (e.g., Raspberry Pi) enables real-time data acquisition, processing, and visualization through an intuitive graphical user interface (GUI).
- Precise Mechanical Adjustments: It includes XYZ translational stages and dual-axis goniometers for accurate positioning and scanning of laser sources and imaging devices.
- Cost-Effective Alternative: It offers an affordable, accessible solution compared to bulky, expensive conventional imaging technologies like MRI and PET.
- Versatile Applications: It is suitable for longitudinal studies, live monitoring, and multi-modal imaging of cerebral blood flow in small animals.
The prototype is a compact, portable, and modular imaging system designed for blood flow imaging in animals. It integrates multiple laser sources –
including uniform, point, and line lasers-with beam shaping optics, combined with a first imaging device mounted on a precise XYZ translational stage and a dual-axis goniometer for flexible positioning. The system includes a holding module with a stereotaxic frame to secure animals, equipped with a second imaging device, pulse oximeter, and temperature probes for real-time physiological monitoring. All components are controlled by an onboard single-board computer featuring a GUI for real-time data acquisition, image processing, and display, enabling versatile imaging of both superficial and deep tissue cerebral blood flow.Validation and testing on mice and rats have been successfully been carried out with functional studies –
forepaw stimulation and olfactory studies.4
This portable, modular imaging system provides real-time, high-resolution blood flow imaging in animals using multi-modal laser sources. It offers a cost-effective, compact alternative to bulky MRI and PET systems, enabling versatile neurological research. The system supports non-invasive, longitudinal studies and therapeutic monitoring. It impacts society by advancing brain disorder research and reducing animal use. Applications include biomedical research, drug development, veterinary diagnostics, and medical device industries.
- Biomedical research
- Pharmaceutical industry
- Preclinical imaging
- Veterinary Medicine
- Medical device industry
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