biostudies-literatureRen CNIBIB NIH HHSNHLBI NIH HHSU.S. Department of Health & Human Services | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood InstituteU.S. Department of Health & Human Services | NIH | National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering278https://www.ebi.ac.uk/biostudies/studies/S-EPMC10918170biostudies-literatureUnknown7(1)Dynamic contrast optical coherence tomography (DyC-OCT), an emerging imaging method, utilizes fluctuation patterns in OCT signals to enhance contrast, thereby enabling non-invasive label-free volumetric live cell imaging. In this mini review, we explain the core concepts behind DyC-OCT image formation and its system configurations, serving as practical guidance for future DyC-OCT users. Subsequently, we explore its applications in delivering high-quality, contrast-enhanced images of cellular morphology, as well as in monitoring changes in cellular activity/viability assay experiments.Communications biologyDynamic contrast optical coherence tomography (DyC-OCT) for label-free live cell imaging.PMC10918170R01 EB025209R01 HL156265R21 EB032684R01EB025209R01HL156265R21EB03268401Amaral MMZhou CMatt AWang FYang DRen CHao SWang LfalseDynamic contrast optical coherence tomography (DyC-OCT) for label-free live cell imaging.Dynamic contrast optical coherence tomography (DyC-OCT), an emerging imaging method, utilizes fluctuation patterns in OCT signals to enhance contrast, thereby enabling non-invasive label-free volumetric live cell imaging. In this mini review, we explain the core concepts behind DyC-OCT image formation and its system configurations, serving as practical guidance for future DyC-OCT users. Subsequently, we explore its applications in delivering high-quality, contrast-enhanced images of cellular morphology, as well as in monitoring changes in cellular activity/viability assay experiments.2024-01-01T00:00:00Z2024 Mar2026-06-12T10:10:03.908Z2025-04-04T12:34:51.04ZS-EPMC109181703844862710.1038/s42003-024-05973-5