Optical molecular imaging

Planar illumination techniques offer significant utility in probing optical contrast at tissue surfaces. For probing events deeper in tissue the development of more advanced imaging methods may be required to obtain quantitative and three-dimensional localization. In view of recent developments of novel biocompatible fluorescent probes for probing molecular function, optical imaging methods may be used towards non-invasive molecular imaging in-vivo with high specificity and localization accuracy. Underpinnings to these developments are the use of near infrared photons to allow deep penetration in tissues, highly sensitive photon detection technologies and appropriate theories and mathematical tools for tomographic reconstruction of optical signals. Herein we briefly outline key components of optical imaging in planar and tomographic mode as an investigation tool for carcinogenesis and focus on recent progress with optical tomography of tissues. Imaging potential and limitations for molecular and clinical imaging are also discussed.