# A modular bioluminescence imaging platform using a novel multi-aperture method

> **NIH NIH R44** · IN VIVO ANALYTICS, INC. · 2024 · $299,896

## Abstract

Bioluminescence Imaging (BLI) is a powerful tool for non-invasive, longitudinal study of biological
processes in small animal models of human disease. While BLI has made remarkable strides across
various preclinical applications, ranging from cancer research to infectious diseases, stem cell studies,
and pharmacokinetics, it still faces substantial challenges. These include limited photon detection from
weak or deep-seated targets, single-view limitations, surface-imaging of diffuse light distributions, an
anatomical information gap akin to nuclear imaging, and qualitative or semi-quantitative image analysis
issues. InVivo Analytics (IVAX) is addressing these challenges, focusing on improving imaging
sensitivity, devising practical multi-view imaging solutions and anatomical co-registration, tackling
complexities in fast 3D tomography while overcoming surface imaging constraints, and exploring
operator independent BLI quantification for enhanced data reproducibility. The introduction of a Multi-
Aperture (MA) method, featuring a concentric mirror system and a novel stray-light collimator, promises
a significant boost in sensitivity and facilitates multi-view imaging and 3D tomography. Complemented
by the Body-Conforming Animal Mold (BCAM) and Organ Probability Map (OPM), IVAX ensures instant
anatomical co-registration without complex hardware, fostering spatial data congruency and automated
quantification across animals. Therefore, IVAX envisions a novel modular imaging platform –
InVivoSCAN – a compact table-top unit that comprises a camera base and three distinct detector head
modules tailored for specific imaging applications, including planar high-throughput, 3D tomographic,
and multi-view imaging. The modular design, coupled with the MA method, BCAM, and OPM, offers an
unprecedented blend of low-cost accessibility and high-performance imaging capabilities. In Phase I,
IVAX aims to confirm the ability to enhance Signal-To-Noise Ratio (SNR) with the novel MA method and
to validate the reduction of stray light using a novel collimator. Milestones are set high, with an
anticipated SNR improvement of over 2× and a substantial reduction of stray light to less than 3% on the
animal surface. Phase II will focus on the development of the modular imaging platform and will
determine its in vivo performance characteristics. InVivoSCAN's modular design not only simplifies
complexity but also embraces adaptability to diverse research needs. From entry-level affordability to
high-performance configurations, InVivoSCAN caters to a broad customer base. The innovative MA
method, collimator, BCAM, and OPM emerge as central elements, ensuring increased imaging
sensitivity, and facilitating accurate co-registration across different modalities. In essence, InVivoSCAN
represents a quantum leap in preclinical imaging, delivering an amalgamation of innovation,
accessibility, and practicality that transcends the boundaries of conventional imaging systems.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11007824
- **Project number:** 1R44MH140129-01
- **Recipient organization:** IN VIVO ANALYTICS, INC.
- **Principal Investigator:** Alexander D. Klose
- **Activity code:** R44 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $299,896
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-08-02 → 2025-07-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11007824

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11007824, A modular bioluminescence imaging platform using a novel multi-aperture method (1R44MH140129-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-12 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11007824. Licensed CC0.

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