Advances in real-time multispectral optoacoustic imaging and its applications

Optoacoustic imaging, or photoacoustic imaging, is insensitive to photon scattering within biological tissue and, unlike conventional optical imaging methods, makes high-resolution optical visualization deep within tissue possible. Recent advances in laser technology, detection strategies and inversion techniques have led to significant improvements in the capabilities of optoacoustic systems. A key empowering feature is the development of video-rate multispectral imaging in two and three dimensions, which offers fast, spectral differentiation of distinct photoabsorbing moieties. We review recent advances and capabilities in the technology and its corresponding emerging biological and clinical applications.