Capturing cell morphology dynamics with high temporal resolution using single-shot quantitative phase gradient imaging

Significance Label-free quantitative phase imaging can potentially measure cellular dynamics with minimal perturbation, motivating efforts to develop faster and more sensitive instrumentation. We characterize fast, single-shot quantitative phase gradient microscopy (ss-QPGM) that simultaneously acquires multiple polarization components required to reconstruct phase images. We integrate a computationally efficient least squares algorithm to provide real-time, video-rate imaging (up to 75 frames/s). The developed instrument was used to observe changes in cellular morphology and correlate these to molecular measures commonly obtained by staining. Aim We aim to characterize a fast approach to ss-QPGM and record morphological changes in single-cell phase images. We also correlate these with biochemical changes indicating cell death using concurrently acquired fluorescence images. Approach Here, we examine nutrient deprivation and anticancer drug-induced cell death in two different breast cell lines, viz., M2 and MCF7. Our approach involves in-line measurements of ss-QPGM and fluorescence imaging of the cells biochemically labeled for viability. Results We validate the accuracy of the phase measurement using a USAF1951 pattern phase target. The ss-QPGM system resolves 912.3 lp/mm, and our analysis scheme accurately retrieves the phase with a high correlation coefficient (similar to 0.99), as measured by calibrated sample thicknesses. Analyzing the contrast in phase, we estimate the spatial resolution achievable to be 0.55 mu m for this microscope. ss-QPGM time-lapse live-cell imaging reveals multiple intracellular and morphological changes during biochemically induced cell death. Inferences from co-registered images of quantitative phase and fluorescence suggest the possibility of necrosis, which agrees with previous findings. Conclusions Label-free ss-QPGM with high-temporal resolution and high spatial fidelity is demonstrated. Its application for monitoring dynamic changes in live cells offers promising prospects.