Motion compensation for optical conduction mapping of early embryonic hearts

Optical mapping (OM) enables visualization of cardiac action potentials using voltage-sensitive dyes, but contraction-induced motion artifacts complicate signal identification. Excitation-contraction uncouplers reduce motion but disrupt normal physiology, preventing in vivo applications. We aim to integrate ratiometric fluorescence imaging with motion tracking algorithms to reduce motion artifacts while preserving near-physiological conditions in embryonic heart studies. The voltage-sensitive dye di-4-ANEPPS exhibits a spectral shift that supports ratiometric imaging ex vivo. Genetically encoded voltage indicators are expected to enable longitudinal in vivo study.