Seminars Archive

Investigating Lung Structure and Function with Synchrotron Light: The Past, The Present and The Future

Abstract
Interrogating the 3D structure and real-time function of the lung at small length scales in vivo, is one of the most challenging applications of synchrotron radiation in biomedical imaging. Much of the current knowledge on lung function at small length scales is based on theoretical predictions, and there is a need for direct measurements. Dynamic measurements allowing the study of regional lung function, are crucial for better understanding of phenomena such as gas transport and exchange, adverse effects of mechanical ventilation on the lung and strategies to prevent them, aerosol transport and deposition, among others. However, real-time imaging of lung function is highly challenging at small length-scales, with a trade-off between spatial and temporal resolutions. On the other hand, the coherence of synchrotron beams allows phase-contrast imaging of poorly radiation-absorbing lung tissue, with the potential to improve the visibility of structural details. In vivo synchrotron radiation imaging also faces limitations due to radiation dose. Here, phase-contrast imaging approaches hold promise for reducing radiation dose deposition. Scientific evidence justifying the translation of in vivo synchrotron imaging to the clinical field for investigating lung diseases will be reviewed.