Researchers take optical coherence tomography to the next level
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been improved such that it can now photograph biological samples with greater contrast and resolution over a larger 3D field of view than was before achievable. The new 3D microscope could be beneficial for scientific research and ultimately lead to more precise medical diagnostic imaging. The researchers from Duke University present the novel method in Optica, the journal for high-impact research published by Optica Publishing Group. They name it 3D optical coherence refraction tomography (3D OCRT). They demonstrate that 3D OCRT generates extremely detailed pictures with characteristics that are challenging to see with conventional OCT using a variety of biological materials. OCT does not require contrast agents or labels in order to produce high-resolution 3D pictures. The imaging technique may be used to view many different body areas, such as the skin and interior of the ears, mouth, arteries, and gastrointestinal system, even though it is fre...