Innovative Open-Source Tools Revolutionize Biomedical Imaging Techniques

In a groundbreaking development for biomedical research, two new open-source tools have emerged that promise to enhance fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM). These tools, named FLIMPA and FLIMngo, were developed by Sofia Kapsiani, a Ph.D. student in Professor Gabi Kaminski Schierle's Molecular Neuroscience Group at the University of Cambridge. Their introduction addresses longstanding technical and practical barriers within the realm of biomedical imaging, aiming to make the technique faster, simpler, and more accessible than ever before.

FLIM, a powerful imaging technique that allows researchers to visualize biological processes in real-time, has faced challenges such as slow imaging speeds and high costs associated with proprietary software. These limitations have hindered its widespread adoption in clinical and research settings. The newly developed tools offer a dual approach to overcoming these obstacles, enabling a broader application of FLIM in live imaging and health care research.

According to Kapsiani, "FLIM has so much potential for live imaging, but it's been held back by practical limitations. With these tools, we're trying to remove those barriers and make FLIM a more flexible option for a wider range of researchers." The first tool, FLIMPA, is a standalone software designed for phasor analysis—a method increasingly utilized in interpreting FLIM data. Unlike commercial alternatives, FLIMPA is freely available and compatible with various file formats, allowing for advanced visualization and intuitive analysis.

The second tool, FLIMngo, is a cutting-edge deep learning model that significantly reduces the time required to collect FLIM data. Trained to operate effectively with low photon counts, FLIMngo can analyze in vivo images in mere seconds without compromising accuracy. This enhancement not only expedites the imaging process but also minimizes light exposure and phototoxicity, which are critical considerations when working with living samples. Kapsiani demonstrated FLIMngo's capabilities by tracking disease-related protein aggregates in Caenorhabditis elegans throughout their life span without the need for anesthesia.

Both tools represent a significant advancement in live imaging research and were released in rapid succession. The latest publication detailing FLIMngo appeared in the Journal of the American Chemical Society in July 2025, while the introduction of FLIMPA was featured in Analytical Chemistry shortly before. These publications underscore the importance of open-source solutions in scientific innovation, as they can catalyze progress across various disciplines.

Professor Kaminski Schierle commended Kapsiani's work, stating, "These are excellent examples of what can be achieved when deep technical insight meets creativity and curiosity. Sofia's work is helping to push FLIM from a niche tool to something much more accessible and scalable." The implications of these developments extend beyond mere technical improvements; they hold the potential to transform how researchers conduct studies in fields ranging from oncology to neuroscience.

As the demand for more efficient and effective biomedical imaging techniques continues to grow, the introduction of FLIMPA and FLIMngo signals a promising shift towards more accessible and versatile research tools. By democratizing access to advanced imaging technologies, these innovations could pave the way for new discoveries and advancements in health care research, ultimately benefiting patients and practitioners alike. The future of FLIM and its applications appears brighter than ever, with these open-source tools leading the charge towards a more inclusive scientific landscape.