Revolutionizing Biomedical Imaging with AI and Open-Source Tools

Thu 10th Jul, 2025

Recent advancements in biomedical imaging have been marked by the introduction of two innovative open-source tools designed to enhance fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM). Developed by a Ph.D. student within a prominent research group at the University of Cambridge, these tools aim to address longstanding challenges in the field of biomedical imaging.

The first tool, FLIMPA, serves as a powerful software for phasor analysis, while the second, FLIMngo, utilizes deep learning technology to significantly reduce data acquisition times. Together, these tools are set to transform the accessibility and efficiency of FLIM, enabling researchers to employ this technique more flexibly in live imaging and healthcare applications.

Released in quick succession, the two tools represent a notable leap forward in live imaging research. The latest publication, appearing in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, details FLIMngo, a deep learning model adept at processing FLIM data with remarkable speed. This model has demonstrated the ability to analyze in vivo images within seconds, even when working with very low photon counts, all while maintaining high accuracy. Such efficiency not only accelerates the imaging process but also minimizes light exposure and phototoxicity, which is particularly important when studying live samples.

In practical demonstrations, the capabilities of FLIMngo were showcased by tracking disease-related protein aggregates in the model organism C. elegans throughout their lifespan without the need for anesthesia. The open-source nature of this tool ensures it can be readily adopted across various imaging systems, promoting broader use in the research community.

The earlier tool, FLIMPA, was introduced in a separate publication in Analytical Chemistry. This software offers a standalone solution for phasor analysis, a method increasingly favored for interpreting FLIM data. Unlike commercial alternatives, FLIMPA is freely accessible, open-source, and compatible with multiple file types. Its advanced visualization features paired with an intuitive user interface allow researchers to compare samples and examine specific molecular behaviors with ease.

In a demonstration of FLIMPA's versatility, the developer crafted a novel cell-based assay aimed at quantifying microtubule depolymerization--a critical process in anti-cancer drug research--by monitoring changes in the fluorescence lifetime of SiR-tubulin.

These developments underscore the potential of combining technical expertise with innovative thinking to advance scientific research. The new tools not only enhance the capabilities of FLIM but also broaden its applicability, making it a more accessible option for a diverse range of researchers.


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