Microsystems-Based Imaging Systems

University Of Michigan At Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor MI

Investigators

Abstract

A National Center for Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NCBIB) will be established at the University of Michigan. Microsystems technology offers a powerful approach to design and fabricate miniature devices that perform key functions for imaging, such as scanning, actuation, and sensing. This approach will be used to scale down devices for use in fiber-coupled microendoscopes to control key imaging parameters, such as field-of-view (FOV), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast, frame rate, and temporal resolution. Simple fabrication processes can be leveraged for mass manufacture at low cost to support Center Technology Research & Development (TRD), Collaborative (CP), and Service (SP) projects. TRD1 will develop miniature scanners, actuators, and sensors for placement in the distal end of microendoscopes to control the focus. Random access scanning can be performed to narrow the image FOV to improve temporal resolution and mitigate motion artifact. Images can be collected in vertical planes to visualize the natural direction of disease progression. TRD2 will develop fiber-coupled microendoscopes with broad access to remote regions for live imaging. These instruments will be developed using single axis confocal, multiphoton, and multi-modal dual axes confocal photoacoustic endoscopes. TRD3 will develop software for image registration and processing, machine learning models for automated digital pathology, and protocols for correlative live-and-postmortem imaging with molecular co-profiling. Center technologies will be developed using resources and expertise that are not readily available elsewhere. Funded investigators will be invited to participate as CPs to perform pre-clinical and clinical studies using TRD1-3 technologies (push). CPs will provide new directions to advance Center technologies (pull). The Center also aims to support funded SPs with biomedical research that can be enhanced using mature Center technologies. The Center serves as a unique national resource to design, fabricate, and test microsystems devices. The Center offers resources for microsystems scan mechanisms and transducer technologies not commercially available. The Center will also provide expertise and methods to integrate microsystems-based components, including assembly, operating procedures, and image analysis. The Center will provide mechanisms to train junior and outside investigators on basic principles of microsystems technologies, microendoscopy, and computational tools for in vivo imaging. A broad range of opportunities will be organized for CP/SPs and outside investigators to build a fundamental understanding of Center technologies. Materials will be designed for beginners and advanced users. A multi-faceted dissemination program will be implemented to share imaging technologies, open source software, and experimental protocols with the imaging community. Both in person and online platforms will be used. Dissemination of Center technologies will include scanner designs, optical methods, and software.