Introduction

摘要

Optical elastography is the use of optics to characterize cells and tissues based on their elastic and viscoelastic mechanical properties. In utilizing the high-resolution capability of optics, this rapidly emerging field builds on and complements the related fields of ultrasound and MR elastography, as well as existing methods for biomechanics, such as atomic force microscopy and rheology. Mechanical forces play an important role in the behavior and development of cells at all spatial scales, from cells and their constituents, to tissues and organs. Such forces profoundly influence the health, structural integrity, and normal function of cells and organs. Accurate determination of cell and tissue biomechanical properties (e.g., Young's or shear modulus) is a vitally important area. High-resolution optical methods could help further the understanding of mechanical interactions, and mechanical properties, with application to clinical diagnosis and interpretation of a wide range of diseases.