ulTRafast hOlograPHic FTIR microscopY

Introduction

Many human pathologies such as cancer are due to complex biochemical alterations that start at a sub-cellular level and lead to progressive changes that result in a heterogeneous tumor composition. The polyclonality of tumor cells hampers the diagnosis and therapy, giving rise to tumor clones that lead to therapy resistance and promote metastases.

Importance of Accurate Diagnosis

An accurate diagnosis of tumor biopsies to identify these particular cell clones is crucial to provide targeted therapy tailored to the tumor characteristics. This approach aims to improve patient outcomes and increase survival rates.

Introduction of TROPHY

For this vision to come true, we introduce ulTRafast hOlograPHic FT-IR microscopY (TROPHY) as a paradigm shift in vibrational microscopy. TROPHY blends elements of:

1. Photo-thermal infrared (PT-IR)
2. Fourier transform (FT)-IR
3. Digital Holography Microscopy (DHM)

Unique Features of TROPHY

TROPHY brings these techniques to the unprecedented ultrafast timescale, where the refractive index change induced by coherent IR vibrations is probed at its peak value before thermal relaxation.

Key Contributions from Each Technique

• PT-IR: Provides the combination of IR vibrational excitation with visible probing for high spatial resolution.
• FT-IR: Utilizes time-domain interferometry to obtain high spectral resolution from broadband excitation.
• DHM: Offers highly sensitive and quantitative detection of the refractive index (phase) change.

Integration with Artificial Intelligence

Combined with artificial intelligence algorithms, this technology will enable quantitative concentration imaging of molecular biomarkers with:

• High spatial resolution
• High chemical selectivity
• High speed

This integration is expected to have a transformative impact on medical research and clinics.

Application in Oncology

In oncology, TROPHY will be applied to intraoperative diagnosis of tumor biopsies, providing:

• Tumor grading
• Staging
• Subtyping

This technology will support complete tumor resection and allow for the determination of the best therapeutic approach tailored to the patient. Furthermore, it will help identify resistant tumor clones under targeted therapy, paving the way for precision medicine in cancer.