Grant: Idea to Innovation

The technology to be advanced is a patented Mueller matrix polarimetry for enhanced imaging (MMPEI) technique. The technique takes advantage of differences across objects being imaged in their interaction with polarized light. In particular, many tissues reflect light of differing polarizations to a differing degree. We use this property to produce images with higher resolution, better contrast and overall improvement in image quality. This technique is broadly applicable to optical imaging using scanning laser beams. MMPEI has been shown to improve the quality of images taken of tissues at the rear of human eyes and of microscopy images. The objectives of this project are to 1) demonstrate that the technology will improve images in small animals; 2) refine the implementation of the polarimetry technique to improve its utility 3) test the amount of improvement provided by the technology when used in combination with adaptive optics and 4) advance potential industry partnerships. Small animal optical imaging is the target area for MMPEI because it is a growing market of importance to scientists in many fields, for instance those studying development, genetics and neuroscience. There is a need for an instrument specifically designed to image small animal eyes and Canadian companies have worldwide markets in this area. Noninvasive imaging, enabled by MMPEI, can track changes in animals in vivo, enabling better understanding of biology and animal models of human disease, and tracking of treatments. The implementation of the method will be improved with the intent to develop an add on device with broad applicability to improve imaging in scanning laser instruments, including microscopes, instruments used for human diagnosis and those used to image small animals.