Spectroscopic imaging of arteries and atherosclerotic plaques |
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Authors: | Colley C S Kazarian S G Weinberg P D Lever M J |
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Affiliation: | Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemical Technology, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ United Kingdom. |
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Abstract: | Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic imaging using a focal plane array detector has been used to study atherosclerotic arteries with a spatial resolution of 3-4 microm, i.e., at a level that is comparable with cellular dimensions. Such high spatial resolution is made possible using a micro-attenuated total reflection (ATR) germanium objective with a high refractive index and therefore high numerical aperture. This micro-ATR approach has enabled small structures within the vessel wall to be imaged for the first time by FTIR. Structures observed include the elastic lamellae of the tunica media and a heterogeneous distribution of small clusters of cholesterol esters within an atherosclerotic lesion, which may correspond to foam cells. A macro-ATR imaging method was also applied, which involves the use of a diamond macro-ATR accessory. This study of atherosclerosis is presented as an illustrative example of the wider potential of these ATR imaging approaches for cardiovascular medicine and biomedical applications. |
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Keywords: | ATR FTIR microspectroscopy biomedical imaging atherosclerosis |
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