Fluorescence lifetime spectroscopy and imaging for biomedical diagnostics

Abstract: Because fluorescence emission is very sensitive to changes in functional and structural properties of molecules and molecular complexes in biological systems, fluorescence-based techniques play an important role on a broad area of biological and medical applications. This presentation will report progress in fluorescence spectroscopy and imaging techniques that has potential for non-invasive, non-destructive and real-time i) characterization, staging, and diagnosis of tissues and cells and ii) monitoring effects or efficacy of therapeutic interventions. Our current approach to the engineering of clinically compatible time-resolved (lifetime) fluorescence spectroscopy devices, and the applications of these devices to diagnosis at tissue and cellular levels, will be described. Key applications to be presented include in-vivo diagnosis of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques impacting stroke and heart disease, and intraoperative demarcation of brain tumor margins in patients.