Dynamic-functional imaging of biological objects using a non-rigid object holder

A non-rigid object holder unit for use in examination of an object, said object holder unit comprising:

• a platform assemby;
• first and second members movably mounted with respect to each other and said platform assemby;
• means operably connected to said first member for controllably moving said first member with respect to said platform assembly and said second member;
• a resilient membrane attached to said first member, said resilient membrane forming an inflatable component for holding the object between said inflatable component and said second member;
• means operably connected to said inflatable component for controllably inflating said inflatable component;
• a source of electromagnetic radiation optically associated said second member for providing a beam of light to the object;
• said resilient membrane and portions of said first and second members being transparent to said electromagnetic radiation;
• and
• an optical detecting system optically aligned with said source of electromagnetic radiation for receiving said electromagnetic radiation passing through and/or being backscattered from the object.