SBIR Fast-track Phase 1/2 Award: A modular bioluminescence imaging platform using a novel multi-aperture method

Bioluminescence Imaging (BLI) is a powerful tool for non-invasive, longitudinal study of biological processes in small animal models of human disease. While BLI has made remarkable strides across various preclinical applications, ranging from cancer research to infectious diseases, stem cell studies, and pharmacokinetics, it still faces substantial challenges. These include limited photon detection from weak or deep-seated targets, single-view limitations, surface-imaging of diffuse light distributions, an anatomical information gap akin to nuclear imaging, and qualitative or semi-quantitative image analysis issues. InVivo Analytics (IVAX) is addressing these challenges, focusing on improving imaging sensitivity, devising practical multi-view imaging solutions and anatomical co-registration, tackling complexities in fast 3D tomography while overcoming surface imaging constraints, and exploring operator independent BLI quantification for enhanced data reproducibility. The introduction of a Multi- Aperture (MA) method, featuring a concentric mirror system and a novel stray-light collimator, promises a significant boost in sensitivity and facilitates multi-view imaging and 3D tomography. Complemented by the Body-Conforming Animal Mold (BCAM) and Organ Probability Map (OPM), IVAX ensures instant anatomical co-registration without complex hardware, fostering spatial data congruency and automated quantification across animals. Therefore, IVAX envisions a novel modular imaging platform – InVivoSCAN – a compact table-top unit that comprises a camera base and three distinct detector head modules tailored for specific imaging applications, including planar high-throughput, 3D tomographic, and multi-view imaging. The modular design, coupled with the MA method, BCAM, and OPM, offers an unprecedented blend of low-cost accessibility and high-performance imaging capabilities. In Phase I, IVAX aims to confirm the ability to enhance Signal-To-Noise Ratio (SNR) with the novel MA method and to validate the reduction of stray light using a novel collimator. Milestones are set high, with an anticipated SNR improvement of over 2× and a substantial reduction of stray light to less than 3% on the animal surface. Phase II will focus on the development of the modular imaging platform and will determine its in vivo performance characteristics. InVivoSCAN’s modular design not only simplifies complexity but also embraces adaptability to diverse research needs. From entry-level affordability to high-performance configurations, InVivoSCAN caters to a broad customer base. The innovative MA method, collimator, BCAM, and OPM emerge as central elements, ensuring increased imaging sensitivity, and facilitating accurate co-registration across different modalities. In essence, InVivoSCAN represents a quantum leap in preclinical imaging, delivering an amalgamation of innovation, accessibility, and practicality that transcends the boundaries of conventional imaging systems.