# Advanced optics to unlock large field-of-view multiphoton imaging for neuroscience and beyond

> **NIH NIH R41** · PACIFIC OPTICA, INC. · 2024 · $287,964

## Abstract

Project summary
Currently available optical components limit biomedical imaging. In particular, in neurobiology, standard microscope
components limit the field-of-view and speed of imaging of neuronal activity. Through prior work on BRAIN
Initiative project, we have developed approaches for new optical components that expand the field-of-view 5 to 50
times over standard microscopes, with no loss in resolution, while retaining high imaging speed. In this project,
we will develop three new products to further impact this field, enabling better imaging systems, higher quality
data, and new experiments. The three products are: (Aim 1) a new long working distance air objective with high
resolution, (Aim 2) a high performance scan lens for large field-of-view imaging, and (Aim 3) an angle-doubling
module for large field-of-view imaging with no loss in scan speed. The company will perform the design studies
and development. The company will partner with the university lab to validate and evaluate the products in
state-of-the-art experiments. The results from this project will result in innovative new optical components that
will expand the field-of-view and throughput of imaging systems in neurobiology labs.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10931753
- **Project number:** 5R41MH136563-02
- **Recipient organization:** PACIFIC OPTICA, INC.
- **Principal Investigator:** SPENCER LAVERE SMITH
- **Activity code:** R41 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $287,964
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2023-09-19 → 2025-12-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10931753

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10931753, Advanced optics to unlock large field-of-view multiphoton imaging for neuroscience and beyond (5R41MH136563-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-25 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10931753. Licensed CC0.

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