Hyperspectral Fiber Photometry for Flexible, Multiplexed Optical Measurements of Brain Function

Introduction

Fiber photometry allows the activity of molecularly defined neuronal populations to be measured in freely behaving animals. The method is based on an implanted optical fiber through which fluorescent genetically encoded indicators of cellular activity, metabolites, or signaling molecules can be monitored and is widely used in neuroscience research.

Limitations of Conventional Systems

However, conventional photometry systems are not flexible and typically limited to a fixed configuration of one or two readout channels.

Development of Fused Fiber Photometry (FFP)

We will develop a new product based on a radically redesigned concept of fiber photometry called Fused Fiber Photometry (FFP). This new design is highly flexible and allows the fiber photometry setup to be easily reconfigured to a large number of spectral configurations at low cost.

Hyperspectral Fiber Photometry

Furthermore, by combining spectral detection with spectral control of the fluorescence excitation signal, we will realize hyperspectral fiber photometry.

Potential Impact

Fused fiber photometry and hyperspectral photometry have the potential to gain large attraction in:

1. Academic research
2. Industrial R&D and manufacturing processes
3. Medical diagnosis

The technique has therefore high commercialization potential and a competitive advantage over existing commercial systems. It allows companies to offer a simple, out-of-the-box, turnkey system that can be easily modified and upgraded to meet user requirements.

Project Goals

Our goal is to develop a commercializable hyperspectral fiber photometry system based on FFP. We will work hand in hand with established industrial partners to bring the system to market.

Long-term Vision

By realizing HyFiPhotometry in this PoC project, we want to exploit the full potential of hyperspectral photometry and demonstrate the feasibility of the basic idea. In the long term, we aim to drive inventiveness in the fields of biomedical research, medicine, and beyond.

Broader Applications

In this way, we expect to move our product from the niche of neuroscience to a wide range of applications that are highly relevant to society.