Combining microscopy with mesoscopy using optical and optoacoustic label-free modes

Abstract

Biology requires observations at multiple geometrical scales, a feature that is not typically offered by a single imaging modality. We developed a hybrid optical system that not only provides different contrast modes but also offers imaging at different geometrical scales, achieving uniquely broad resolution and a 1000-fold volume sampling increase compared to volumes scanned by optical microscopy. The system combines optoacoustic mesoscopy, optoacoustic microscopy and two-photon microscopy, the latter integrating second and third harmonic generation modes. Label-free imaging of a mouse ear and zebrafish larva ex-vivo demonstrates the contrast and scale complementarity provided by the hybrid system. We showcase the superior anatomical orientation offered by the label-free capacity and hybrid operation, over fluorescence microscopy, and the dynamic selection between field of view and resolution achieved, leading to new possibilities in biological visualization.