New fluorescence imaging probe with high spatial resolution for in vivo applications

A new fiberized fluorescence imaging probe is presented. This device can potentially be used for a wide range of biological or medical applications. By exploiting the chromatic aberrations of gradient index lenses, the excitation blue or near-UV excitation light is focused on the sample surface, while the red fluorescence signal is efficiently launched back to collecting fibers. The excitation fiber is single mode at the working wavelength so that a resolution of 5 mum is obtained over a scanning area of several square millimeters. Experimental fluorescence images are presented. They concern either self-fabricated fluorescent microsamples or views of leaves that constitute an example of biological tissues analysis. The probe can also be adapted for spectroscopic investigations. (C) 2004 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers.