Biomedical Super-resolved Imaging Using Special Micro-probe

In this paper, we present a design proposal as well as a preliminary experimental validation of special multi-functional biomedical probe. The probe acts as a very thin endoscope (diameter of 100-200 μm), while maintaining high imaging resolution. This micro-probe was made out of polymers, while the core is made out of polystyrene and the cladding is made out of poly(methyl methacrylate). The micro-probe consists from combining hollow regions (capillaries) of a holey structure together with nonhollow regions to form multiple cores. Experimental results for constructing and imaging a resolution target as well as of Fe micro-beads that are embedded into an agar solution are reported. Two very thin tips with external diameters of 100 and 200 μm have been fabricated. The tip provides localization at which its functionalities can be applied. The high imaging resolution capability of 5,000-10,000 imaged pixels and the fact that the edge of the micro-probe is very thin allows localized biomedical inspection, visualization, and treatment with minimal invasive damage. The proposed probe does not provide only spatial resolution that is as good as the one obtained in common endoscopes but it may also enable medical treatment-related multi-functionalities.