Custom - terminated multimode fibre probe for holographic micro-endoscopy

Using multiphoton microscopy, we can image the tissue with sub-cellular resolution at depths down to 1.5 mm. Beyond this reach, the light must be delivered to the target region by optical relay elements inserted into the tissue - the endoscopes. Focusing light through a step-index multimode optical fibre (MMF) using wave-front control enables minimally-invasive endoscopy. With fibre micro-endoscopes, we can reach any depth with negligible tissue disruption and keep the resolution below 1 micrometre, sufficient for in vivo microscopy. We designed a novel custom-terminated multimode fibre probe. This work will focus on optical fibre probe manufacturing methods (etching, polishing and coating) and their impact on imaging quality.

Automated summary

Multiphoton microscopy allows tissue imaging with sub-cellular resolution at depths up to 1.5 mm. Optical relay elements called endoscopes are used to deliver light beyond this range. Minimally invasive endoscopy is achieved by focusing light through a step-index multimode optical fibre (MMF) using wave-front control. Fibre micro-endoscopes enable reaching any depth with minimal tissue disruption and maintaining resolution below 1 micron for in vivo microscopy. This study focuses on the impact of manufacturing methods on imaging quality of a custom-terminated multimode fibre probe.