Unlocking the Deep Brain

This technology can be utilised while the organism engages in sensory processing, cognition, and behaviour, as well as during the manifestation and progression of diseases. It represents a ground-breaking advancement that surpasses many of the limitations inherent in current state-of-the-art instruments. Unlike traditional optical systems, the holographic endoscope employs a hair-thin multimode optical fibre, which transports light in an immensely complex and seemingly random manner. Through methods of digital holography, this complex flow of light can be, however, experimentally quantified (calibrated) and subsequently controlled (shaped), effectively transforming the fibre into an ultra-thin, unprecedentedly long ‘magnifying glass’ capable of reaching any tissue depth without significantly compromising tissue integrity. The most advanced holographic endoscopes to date were developed under the EU funding and are currently undergoing commercial transfer through the incorporated spin-out venture DeepEn.