Label-free Imaging Cytometry

Discovery of novel biomarkers for early detection of hematological disorders and cancer

Routine diagnosis of hematological disorders requires stained blood smear analysis and remains the gold standard. To overcome the analytical limitations of today’s methods, we combine high-throughput microfluidic systems with digital holographic microscopy for improved early detection and treatment of hematological disorders and leukemia. Thereby, the analysis of cells close to in vivo conditions provides novel insights into cell morphology, function and interaction.

Publications:

Label-free high-throughput leukemia detection by holographic microscopy. Adv. Sci., 2018, 1800761

Contact: Ellen Emken (ellen.emken@tum.de)

Colored phase images of different leukocyte types from leukemic samples. Scale bar is 5 µm. Modified from: Ugele et al, Adv. Sci. 2018, 1800761.

Detection of human and veterinary parasites for improved treatment and monitoring

Label-free visualization of P. falciparum life cycle stages in biconcave erythrocytes. Reconstructed phase images and heat maps of corresponding phase images are displayed. Scale bars are 5 µm. Malaria life cycle overview image modified from http:/ocw.jhsph.edu/imageLibrary/.

The detection of many human and veterinary blood parasites is still challenging today. With our label-free approach we aim to improve the detection close to in vivo conditions by reducing sample preparation effort and analysis time. By this, the first diagnosis and treatment monitoring of (neglected) parasitic diseases can be significantly improved.

Publications:

Label-free, high-throughput detection of P. falciparum infection in sphered erythrocytes with digital holographic microscopy. Lab Chip, 2018,18, 1704-1712.

Contact: Ellen Emken (ellen.emken@tum.de)