Multi-modality imaging of structure and function combining spectral-domain optical coherence and multiphoton microscopy

We have constructed an integrated optical microscope that allows for the simultaneous image acquisition from multiple optical imaging modalities. The microscope consists primarily of hardware for spectral-domain optical coherence microscopy (OCM), multi-photon microscopy (MPM), and second harmonic generation microscopy. The unique configuration of the integrated microscope allows for the acquisition of both anatomical and functional imaging information with particular emphasis in the fields of tissue engineering and tumor biology. By overlaying the structural image obtained from OCM on the functional image obtained simultaneously from MPM (i.e., fluorescent markers imply functional proteins), a more comprehensive view of different tissues can be obtained. In addition, the contemporary analysis of the spectroscopic features enhances contrast in OCM by differentiating different cell and tissue components.