Integrated photonics for signal processing and lasers towards the next generation optical coherence tomography

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a powerful and scalable imaging platform, indispensable in ophthalmology and increasingly relevant in dermatology, cardiology, and industrial inspection. Yet its broader potential remains constrained by the lack of real-time en-face visualization and reliance on bulky, high-cost hardware.INTEGRAL addresses these challenges by rethinking OCT architecture from source to signal, introducing integrated photonic technologies that eliminate long-standing bottlenecks.At its core are two breakthrough innovations: a Down-conversion Leader-Follower (DLF) photonic processor that performs direct optical-domain signal processing without FFT or resampling, and an Akinetic Dispersive Laser (ADL) providing fast, stable, compact swept-source illumination with no moving parts. Implemented as photonic integrated circuits, these components enable real-time, multi-depth en-face imaging at sweep rates beyond 5 MHz—an order of magnitude faster than today’s commercial systems.INTEGRAL targets two key OCT wavelength bands—1060nm for deep tissue penetration and 840nm for high-resolution imaging—delivering a compact, modular engine compatible with current and next-gen systems. By eliminating the need for highspeed digitization and enabling instant visual feedback, INTEGRAL unlocks new applications across ophthalmology, surgery, dermatology & industrial inspection.The project brings together world-leading expertise in photonic integration, OCT, and medical device manufacturing in a high-risk, high-gain initiative that aims to rewrite the technological foundations of medical imaging. If successful, INTEGRAL will enable widespread OCT adoption not just in clinics, but also in general practices, pharmacies, and even homes—supporting accessible health monitoring. This lays a strong foundation for post-project commercial exploitation and TRL scaling, establishing a sovereign EU supply chain and leadership in a high-value, fast-growing global market.