Development of miniature fluorescence microscope with optogenetically synchronized patterned illumination

Myriad of complex interactions from molecular to system level underlie the functioning of the brain, and their thorough understanding is crucial for ultimate experimental goals of neuroscience. Recent breakthroughs in optogenetics allow controling the activity of small groups and even single neurons while recording their responses with minimal effect on natural biological processes. Currently though, the optogenetically synchronized fluorescence microscopes are either bulky and thus limitedly applicable for in vivo studies or lack selective cell targeting. We propose development of miniature fluorescent microscope with flexible spatiotemporal photostimulation patterns of ensembles of neurons in freely behaving animals. The two main components of the proposed system are a fiber-coupled patterned illumination system with fluorescence excitation and miniature head-mountable imaging system. For precision and targeted photostimulation of light-activated proteins (opsins), the light beam from high power incoherent light source will be shaped by user-controlled digital micromirror device (DMD). TO BE CONT’D

Faculty Supervisor:

Michel Piché

Student:

Partner:

Doric Lenses Inc

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Université Laval

Program: