Miniaturized Head-Mounted Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging System For Brain Imaging In Freely Moving Animals

Brief Description

A lightweight, head-mounted OCT system enabling real-time, high-resolution brain imaging in freely moving small animals.

Full Description

This invention is a miniaturized, lightweight head-mounted OCT device that enables noninvasive, real-time brain imaging in freely moving small animals without anesthesia or restraint. It supports structural, Doppler, and angiographic OCT, with advanced features like a MEMS scanning mirror, rotary fiber joint, and modular holders for flexible imaging depths—offering a stable, versatile platform for neuroscience and neurovascular research.

Suggested uses

• Neuroscience and disease modeling: Enables studies of brain structure, function, and neurovascular disorders 
• Functional vascular insights: Supports investigation of neurovascular coupling, blood flow dynamics, and vascular network mapping. 
• Therapeutic and behavioral applications: Facilitates drug testing, treatment evaluation, and cognitive/behavioral research with real-time imaging in freely moving animals.

Advantages

• Weighs ≤1.5 g to avoid behavioral interference, with interchangeable holders for varied imaging depths and cranial windows. 
• Supports structural/Doppler/angiography OCT with real-time imaging up to 200 kHz and ≥100 Hz frame rates. 
• Rotary fiber joint reduces motion artifacts; fabricated using standard optics with 3D-printed/CNC housings for affordability.

Patent Status

Patent Pending