Molecular Specific Photoacoustic Imaging and Photothermal Therapy

Introduction

Despite enhanced understanding and the development of new therapeutic options, cancer remains a major cause of human morbidity and mortality worldwide. Early diagnosis of malignant events is the single most important factor determining survivability and long-term outcomes.

Much effort has been focused on the identification of cancer biomarkers that can be easily monitored in body fluids. However, it has been very difficult to identify soluble biomarker(s) with a high degree of specificity and selectivity for diagnosis. Therefore, invasive procedures remain the primary approach for cancer diagnosis. In general, cancer diagnosis is a separate function from the associated therapy.

Invention Description

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have identified a new imaging methodology that could readily be linked to effective therapies. Using photo-acoustic methods and targeted gold nanoparticles, researchers have enhanced imaging capabilities, with greater tissue penetration and earlier detection through visualization of targeted nanoparticles. Once imaged, photo-thermal approaches can be applied by the same equipment to ablate the tumor area. Tumor necrosis can be monitored by a combination of photoacoustic and ultrasound imaging.

IP Status

One U.S. Patent Application Filed

UT Researcher

• Stanislav Emelianov, Ph.D., Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin
  
• Konstantin V. Sokolov, Ph.D., Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin
  
• Timothy A. Larson, Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin
  
• Srivalleesha Mallidi, Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin

Contact:

University os texas,
Austin, USA
Website : www.otc.utexas.edu