Low-cost embedded system for optical imaging of intrinsic signals

This paper describes the proof-of-concept evaluation of a low-cost imaging system for obtaining functional connectivity maps of in vivo murine models. This non-contact system is based on the Raspberry Pi 3 and its V2 camera and offers a method for obtaining resting-state images of brain activity without the use of extrinsic contrast agents. The system was fully characterized in terms of dark signal, linearity, sensor noise resolution, and spatial frequency response. One mouse was observed in vivo, and functional connectivity maps were obtained by combining resting-state analysis and optical intrinsic signals imaging. Intra-mouse variations in functional connectivity remain consistent across multiple imaging sessions. In principle, inexpensive optical imaging of intrinsic signals allows the study of the mechanisms underlying human brain disorders in well-controlled murine models.