E!1074, MicroQuaD, Karolinska Institute, KI
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Karolinska Institutet - Karolinska Institutet Inst f molekylär medicin& kirurgi |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 2 069 418 |
| Project duration | June 2022 - December 2024 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Eurostars |
Important results from the project
The objective of the project was met by establishing a confocal microscope that could detect fluorescence in the NIR range, and also use this to make in vivo measurements deeper into a tissue than is possible with visible light. The microscope uses SNSPD detector (from Síngle Quantum) which enables sensitive detection with high time precision. Therefore we were also able to measure fluorescence lifetime using TCSPC (from PicoQuant). Blood vessels were then visualized deeper inside the tissue.
Expected long term effects
The great advantages of using SNSPD detectors for the NIR range fluorescence detection at greater depths in tissues will be disseminated via publications and conferences. The technology may be used both in biomedical research and for the detection of various parameters clinically. Also using FLIM with the help of TCSPC is something that gives extended usability in combination with SNSPD. The project´s results will of course also be guiding in the further development of NIR microscopes.
Approach and implementation
The original intention was to use a microscope to be specially built for NIR. Delays due to technical problems led is to adapt an existing microscope for these invivo measurements. As a result, we were able to achieve good performance in the NIR to complete the project within the project´s time frame. We then integrated an SNSPD detector with TCSPC hardware and a confocal microscope so we thereby succeeded in optimizing a system for in vivo measurements and also to perform these in the project.