Modular imaging platform for preclinical optical imaging using a multi-aperture method and stray-light collimator

Abstract

The invention relates to a modular preclinical optical imaging platform designed for small animal models of human disease and tissue samples. The platform integrates advanced imaging modalities, including bioluminescence imaging (BLI), fluorescence imaging (FLI), and Cerenkov light imaging (CLI), along with their tomographic extensions. It generates quantitative planar and volumetric optical images for in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo applications. The system addresses key challenges in preclinical optical imaging, such as limited photon detection, single-view limitations, surface-imaging constraints, absence of anatomical information, and semi-quantitative data analysis. To overcome these limitations, the platform incorporates innovative features, including a multi-aperture (MA) method for enhanced sensitivity, a stray-light collimator (SLC) for improved signal clarity, and a Body-Conforming Animal Mold (BCAM) paired with an Organ Probability Map (OPM) for instant anatomical co-registration without complex hardware.

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