Advanced X-ray Energy-sensitive Microscopy for Virtual Histology

Introduction

In the last 20 years, phase-contrast x-ray imaging has evolved from first proof-of-principle experiments with relatively poor contrast to a mature research field with many branches. Standing on the shoulders of scientific achievements and technological development, the time has come where virtual histology for biomedical applications is within reach. The aim of this research project is to design and construct a prototype x-ray microscope for three-dimensional histology.

Current Imaging Modalities

In the clinics, we are used to non-invasive three-dimensional image modalities such as:

• Computed tomography (CT)
• Ultrasound
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

The ability to visualize and track structures through a volume is extremely valuable for the purpose of diagnosis.

Challenges in Histology

For microscopy of tissue biopsies, our golden standard is histological procedures involving thin slicing of the tissue before imaging in a microscope. This process renders volumetric interpretation very difficult, if not impossible.

Proposed Solution

With the proposed phase-contrast micro-CT scanner, tissue samples can be imaged in three dimensions. This allows the computer rendering of the sample to be sliced in any arbitrary plane, providing the possibility of volumetric data analysis. In this fashion, useful volumetric information can be extracted for various applications in biomedical research.

Direct Applications

As a direct application, we will use this 3D Histology setup to obtain a detailed volumetric understanding of the development of lung lesions, complementing it with gold standard microscopy techniques.

Benefits of the Lab-Based Setup

A lab-based setup for virtual histology will allow:

1. Full studies of disease pathologies with statistical significance.
2. Optimization of experimental protocols.

Technical Implementation

To achieve the goal of soft tissue micro-CT, we will implement a novel inverse-geometry single-grating interferometer. When combined with state-of-the-art detector and source technology, a scanner for high-resolution phase-contrast tomography of soft tissue will be realized.