Accelerating whole-sample polarization-resolved second harmonic generation imaging in mammary gland tissue via generative adversarial networks

Biomed Opt Express. 2024 Aug 15;15(9):5251-5271. doi: 10.1364/BOE.529779. eCollection 2024 Sep 1.

Abstract

Polarization second harmonic generation (P-SHG) imaging is a powerful technique for studying the structure and properties of biological and material samples. However, conventional whole-sample P-SHG imaging is time consuming and requires expensive equipment. This paper introduces a novel approach that significantly improves imaging resolution under conditions of reduced imaging time and resolution, utilizing enhanced super-resolution generative adversarial networks (ESRGAN) to upscale low-resolution images. We demonstrate that this innovative approach maintains high image quality and analytical accuracy, while reducing the imaging time by more than 95%. We also discuss the benefits of the proposed method for reducing laser-induced photodamage, lowering the cost of optical components, and increasing the accessibility and applicability of P-SHG imaging in various fields. Our work significantly advances whole-sample mammary gland P-SHG imaging and opens new possibilities for scientific discovery and innovation.

Associated data

  • figshare/10.6084/m9.figshare.26371606