Future directions for this project could be focused on optimizing the ease of use of the device to streamline the imaging process. 

Tissue Attachment Method

• The current design requires sewing two sutures onto each side of the tissue sample, totaling eight sutures that must be meticulously sewn into the tissue and tied at the correct length to fit the configuration of the suture attachment positions. This technique was chosen to minimize the possibility of scratching the microscope objective with the hooks that are typically used in mechanical testing and creating a reflective surface that would interfere with SHG imaging. Alternative methods of tissue attachment could, for example, use a clamping mechanism that would make it easier to attach the tissue to the device. 

Device Precision 

• The tissue stretching mechanism could be more precise by using linear actuators instead of a rack and pinion. This would require a greater budget that could be justified by using the current device as a proof of concept. 

Additional Imaging with Multiphoton Microscope

• There is significant room for future development by testing the device with the multiphoton microscope itself. Since the current device has been designed with the physical constraints of the microscope platform and objective in mind, future directions could include testing the device with the microscope and analyzing the changes in collagen orientation. This would provide valuable information on whether there are aspects of the device that are problematic or require further development to ensure that the tissue is positioned for optimal SHG imaging in the conditions in which we are interested.