In vivo molecular and morphological imaging by real time confocal mini-microscopy

Abstract

We evaluated a newly developed miniaturized confocal laser microscopy probe for real-time in vivo molecular and morphological imaging of normal, inflammatory, and malignant tissue in rodents. In the rigid mini-microscopy probe (diameter 7 mm), a single line laser delivers an excitation wavelength of 488 nm. Optical slice thickness is 7 &#956;m, lateral resolution 0.7 &#956;m. The range of the z-axis is 0 - 250 &#956;m below the tissue surface. Organ systems were examined in vivo in rodent models of human diseases. FITC-labeled <i>Lycopersion esculentum </i>lectin was injected or selected cell populations stained for molecular targeting. Morphological imaging was performed using fluorescein sodium, FITC-labeled dextran, and/or acriflavine hydrochloride. Cellular and subcellular details could be readily visualised in vivo at high resolution. Tissue characteristics of different organs were rendered at real time. Selective blood cell staining allowed observation of blood flow and cell migration. Inflammatory diseases such as hepatitis were diagnosed, and tumors were characterized under microscopic control in vivo. Confocal mini-microscopy allows real time in vivo molecular and morphological histologic imaging at high resolution of normal and diseased tissue. Since confocal microscopy is applicable to humans, this technology will have a high impact on different faculties in medicine.