Project Summary This is an application in response to FOA number, PAR-24-022 (NIBIB), “Trailblazer Award for New and Early Stage Investigators (R21 Clinical Trial Optional)”. Recently, we demonstrated non-mechanical scanning for imaging. This technology can be used for a miniature forward-viewing endoscopic micro-optical coherence tomography (µOCT) system to image tissue during surgery. The endoscope will enable great insight into human illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurological disorders. While µOCT is a mature technology, miniaturization of a system into a probe has faced challenges. Galvos are large and bulky, MEMs mirrors (both electrostatic and electrothermal) require non-negligible powers, mechanically moving parts, and are limited in speed. In contrast, our endoscopic probe relies on a compact, non-mechanical electrowetting adaptive optical component that shows great promise for imaging applications. We will first validate our device by designing and demonstrating a low-voltage component operating at kHz speeds. Next, we will develop a miniaturized µOCT endoscope system with an integrated electrowetting prism scanner. We will demonstrate both systems on phantom tissue. The results can be used to extend the technology to imaging the cardiovascular system. AIM 1: TECHNICAL APPROACH Demonstrate kHz spectral-domain µOCT using a low voltage electrowetting prism scanner AIM 2: TECHNICAL APPROACH Demonstrate a miniaturized µOCT endoscope system with an integrated electrowetting prism scanner

Project Narrative A current challenge for cardiologists is the ability to generate high resolution images of the heart. This is driven by the lack of compact forward-viewing endoscopic micro-optical coherence tomography systems. In the proposed research, we will develop an innovative compact endoscope containing a low-voltage electrowetting adaptive element with an ultimate goal of forward-viewing endoscopic micro-optical coherence tomography in a surgical setting.