Novel optical technologies to study complex physiological behavior
Abstract
Innovation in technology routinely leads the way for discovery in chemistry and biology.Existing technologies like neural probes and single molecule microscopy transformed our understanding, but they are being pushed to their limits. To continue to explore the inherent complexity of biological systems, innovative solutions are needed. Two current challenges in physiology are understanding the robustness of neural connectivity and quantitatively measuring the mechanical properties of tissue. While apparently distinct questions, they are actually related as both must be solved in order to develop comprehensive protective measures, for example, improved helmets and vests. The current effort will develop and validate two novel optical technologies to enable these measurements.The first system that will be studied is bioelectric fields such as those responsible for healing,cellular control, and neural processes. While these networks permeate biological systems, our fundamental understanding of bioelectric fields is in its infancy. In part, this knowledge gap is due to our inability to accurately and non-invasively modulate and record the bioelectric fields in living systems using the same probe. Specifically, while many methods are able to either record or modulate, a single system that does not require genetic engineering, and thus is compatible with primary cell lines, is not available. The goal of the first task is to synthesize a multifunctional two-photon imaging probe that can both detect and modulate bioelectric fields in living neurons and neural organoids. After developing this molecular modulator reporter (MMR) and the optical fiber probe control system, we will use it to study the robustness of neural networks to physical and chemical insult. A similarly complex system is the mechanical behavior of biological materials. Part of the complexity lies in the heterogeneity of the tissue architecture at both the nano- and microscale Current methods for characterizing the mechanical behavior of materials attempt to balance spatial resolution with material complexity, forcing researchers to choose between either measuring individual cells (high resolution, but low sample complexity) or complete tissue (reduced resolution, but high complexity). Both methods result in key information being left out of the analysis. In addition, the time-dependent cell viability may induce mechanical behavior change in the tissues. This aspect is particularly important as many measurements on human tissue have been performed using cadavers. To overcome this challenge, we will develop a mechanical sensor array that can measure the elasticity of tissue are multiple points. Importantly, it will be able to interface with a conventional force probe, allowing for quantitative information to be obtained. Using this system, we will map out the mechanical behavior of the key organs in the b dy as well as measure the temporal dependence and sample preparation dependence of their mechanical behavior.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 02, 2021
- Source ID
- N000142112048
Entities
People
- Andrea Armani
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Southern California