Title: Localization optoacoustic tomography,
Abstract: Localization-based imaging has revolutionized fluorescence optical microscopy
and has also enabled unprecedented ultrasound images of microvascular
structures in deep tissues. Herein, we introduce a new concept of localization
optoacoustic tomography (LOAT) that employs rapid sequential acquisition of
three-dimensional optoacoustic images from flowing absorbing particles. We show
that the new method enables breaking through the spatial resolution barrier of
acoustic diffraction while further enhancing the visibility of structures under
limited-view tomographic conditions. Given the intrinsic sensitivity of
optoacoustics to multiple hemodynamic and oxygenation parameters, LOAT may
enable new level of performance in studying functional and anatomical
alterations of microcirculation.