<title>Luminescence studies using high-resolution intensified digital imaging: preliminary results</title>

Abstract

The use of bio/chemiluminescence immunoassay (BL/CLI) technology for molecular and cellular characterization is rapidly evolving. The excellent selectivity of this method can be exploited to identify the presence and distribution of specific cells. Current work involves the advancement of the required methods and technologies for application to the analysis of vascular wall surfaces. In this effort, various enzymelinked antibodies are being explored which can be directed to cell surface antigens producing a luminogenic reaction. To aid in the analysis of this light emission, a custom high resolution digital imaging system which couples a multi-megapixel CCD with a specially designed image intensifier is under development. This intensifier system has high spatial resolution and excellent sensitivity in the wavelength region of the candidate BL/CL emissions. The application of this imaging system to BL/CLI requires unique performance characteristics and specialized optical design. Component level electro-optical tests of the imaging system will be presented along with design considerations for an eventual catheter based instrument. Initial in vitro experiments focused on the performance limits of the optical system in discriminating candidate luminogenic reactions. The main objective of these tests is the identification of suitable enzyme catalyzed systems for ultimate application to in vivo vascular tissue and cell diagnosis.