Introduction
The objective of this research is to develop and apply advanced photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) techniques for high-resolution, non-invasive imaging of the eye in real-time. By integrating PAM with optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescence microscopy (FM), the research aims to achieve comprehensive imaging of the eye, providing detailed insights into its structural and functional attributes. This approach enables the visualization of individual blood vessels and abnormal microvasculature, such as neovascularization, essential for diagnosing and monitoring ocular diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, retinal neovascularization, and choroidal neovascularization.
Molecular imaging allows for the visualization of cellular functioning and monitoring of molecular processes in living tissues without causing disruption. In our research, contrast agents like gold-based nanoparticles have been chosen and functionalized to fulfill specific requirements to acquire additional molecular information from the eye. These optimized contrast agents improve imaging capabilities, enabling accurate tracking and detailed visualization of pathological areas within the eye. They offer essential information regarding cellular and molecular activities, which have significant potential in diagnosing and monitoring the treatment of ocular diseases. Ultimately, this research aims to enhance early diagnosis and treatment monitoring, leading to improved patient outcomes in ophthalmology. This comprehensive approach provides detailed anatomical and functional imaging as well as allows for real-time monitoring of disease progression and treatment efficacy.
Furthermore, our group is working on developing innovative approaches that utilize multimodal imaging systems and molecular imaging to explore the integration of stem cells in advanced ocular imaging. Our goal is to improve the ability to visualize stem cells in the ocular environment by using gold-based nanoparticles as contrast agents. This enables the monitoring of stem cell behavior, differentiation, and therapeutic effects, offering valuable insights into their potential for treating retinal and choroidal diseases. This research holds promise for advancing stem cell therapies and improving patient outcomes in ophthalmology.
Example results
Figure 1. (a) Schematic and (b) photograph of the multimodal imaging system, including photoacoustic microscopy (PAM), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fluorescence microscopy (FM).
Figure 2. Schematic of preparation and physicochemical characteristics of contrast agents (ultraminiature gold nanochain encapsulated with RGD ligands).
Figure 3. Multimodal PAM, OCT, and FM images of living albino and pigmented rabbits.
Figure 4. Multimodal images of chain gold nanoparticle clusters-RGD-labeled ARPE-19 cells post-transplantation into rabbit eyes.