Optical imaging techniques for the study of malaria

Trends Biotechnol. 2012 Feb;30(2):71-9. doi: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2011.08.004. Epub 2011 Sep 18.

Abstract

Malarial infection needs to be imaged to reveal the mechanisms behind malaria pathophysiology and to provide insights to aid in the diagnosis of the disease. Recent advances in optical imaging methods are now being transferred from physics laboratories to the biological field, revolutionizing how we study malaria. To provide insight into how these imaging techniques can improve the study and treatment of malaria, we summarize recent progress on optical imaging techniques, ranging from in vitro visualization of the disease progression of malaria infected red blood cells (iRBCs) to in vivo imaging of malaria parasites in the liver.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / methods*
  • Malaria / pathology*
  • Malaria / physiopathology*
  • Models, Biological
  • Plasmodium / pathogenicity*