Single-shot quantitative dispersion phase microscopy.

We present an imaging modality capable of providing high-speed optical dispersion measurements of live cells. The technique permits wide-field measurement of the optical phase shifts introduced by a sample for multiple discrete wavelengths in a single image capture. Utilizing spatial modulation and the wavelength dependence of the interference-fringe spacing, average refractive index as a function of wavelength is obtained, yielding optical dispersion measurements of the sample under observation. Because of its simple and low-cost design, the technique can be readily integrated into a standard microscope to collect additional diagnostic information about biological cells.