Clinical applications of multiphoton microscopy: Focus on cardiovascular diagnosis

Multiphoton microscopy (MPM) provides a unique possibility of imaging the micrometer-scale structure of intact tissue. It can image indivdual connective fibers up to one millimeter below the surface. MPM has been used successfully in the imaging of cell-s tructure and -dynamics, but has only relativley recently been tested towards clinical applications. The potential for new developments is great and the equipment, expertise and network of this project provides a unique setting for spawning new ideas. Sub projects: (1) Heart disease is the no. 1 killer in the western world and the majority of these are caused by the rupture of vulnerable plaque. The mechanical stability of plaques are determined by structure and thickness of the fibrous cap that covers th e plaques. This project will assess the applicability of MPM in determining the different pathological states of atherosclerosis and as an aid in diagnosis of CVD, improving the prescription of apporpriate treatment.. (2) Mathematical modelling of the mi tral valve is important when interpreting various pathological conditions based on ultrasound imaging. To develop an accurate mathematical model, the mechanical properties of the mitral valve must be accuratly known. This can be determined in greater deta il by using MPM to determine the microscopic structure of the connective tissue that makes up the valve. We will conduct experiments to find a model which relates the microscopic structure to the macroscopic mechanical properties. This will allow for a mo re accurate modelling of tissue using MPM.