Reliable investigation of cellular morphology and intercellular interactions requires accurate three-dimensional (3D) visualization, and capturing their dynamic processes remains one of the core goals of life science. Traditional wide-field microscopy generally provides only two-dimensional (2D) projections. Although scanning-based 3D imaging techniques such as confocal and light-sheet microscopy can acquire volumetric data, they face inherent trade-offs between imaging speed and phototoxicity in long-term live-cell imaging. Light-field microscopy (LFM) captures both spatial and angular information in a single exposure, enabling rapid volumetric imaging. However, its spatial resolution is limited by non-uniform sampling. Fourier light-field microscopy (FLFM) enhances resolution and sampling uniformity by partitioning the pupil plane into sub-apertures to obtain multi-view information, becoming an emerging direction in light-field imaging.

Phase contrast microscopy represents a cornerstone technology in biomedical imaging, enabling the visualization of transparent specimens such as living cells and tissues by converting subtle phase variations into measurable intensity contrasts without requiring staining or labeling. This capability is particularly crucial for observing delicate biological processes in their native state. However, conventional phase contrast imaging systems face several fundamental limitations that restrict their practical utility. These systems typically rely on bulky optical components, support only a single imaging mode, and demonstrate inadequate contrast when examining samples with complex, heterogeneous phase structures. Furthermore, the high-intensity illumination required for conventional imaging often causes photodamage to sensitive live specimens, while mechanical switching between imaging modes introduces alignment instability and vibration, significantly limiting their application in miniaturized devices or in vivo environments where stability and non-invasiveness are paramount.

Quantum Imaging lies at the intersection between quantum physics and imaging science. Quantum technologies, e.g., quantum illumination and detection, have driven advancements in imaging, enabling the development of novel imaging schemes or enhancing camera performance beyond the classical limitations. These advancements include ghost imaging, quantum holography, quantum OCT, imaging with quantum states of light to surpass shot noise or Heisenberg limit. Meanwhile, the quantum imaging has inspired the development of novel imaging schemes – quantum-inspired imaging – which includes single-pixel imaging, single-photon imaging, imaging beyond the diffraction limit and so forth.