title: Adaptive optics for enhanced signal in CARS microscopy.
abstract: We report the use of adaptive optics with coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) microscopy for label-free deep tissue imaging based on molecular vibrational spectroscopy. The setup employs a deformable membrane mirror and a random search optimization algorithm to improve signal intensity and image quality at large sample depths. We demonstrate the ability to correct for both system and sample-induced aberrations in test samples as well as in muscle tissue in order to enhance the CARS signal. The combined system and sample-induced aberration correction increased the signal by an average factor of approximately 3x for the test samples at a depth of 700 microm and approximately 6x for muscle tissue at a depth of 260 microm. The enhanced signal and higher penetration depth offered by adaptive optics will augment CARS microscopy as an in vivo and in situ biomedical imaging modality.
authors: Institute of Photonics, SUPA, University of Strathclyde, 106 Rottenrow, Glasgow,G4 0NW, Scotland.
authors: A J
authors: AJ
authors: Wright
authors: S P
authors: SP
authors: Poland
authors: J M
authors: JM
authors: Girkin
authors: C W
authors: CW
authors: Freudiger
authors: C L
authors: CL
authors: Evans
authors: X S
authors: XS
authors: Xie
mesh_terms: D017076:Computer-Aided Design; D004867:Equipment Design; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000295:instrumentation*; D007909:Lenses; D008853:Microscopy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013059:Spectrum Analysis, Raman / Q000295:instrumentation*