FunctIonal optoacousticS for imaging Early onsEt of Gut inflammation

Introduction

The aim of this project is to functionalize contrast agents for multispectral optoacoustic tomography (MSOT) - a molecular "sensitive" ultrasound imaging technique - to develop a new targeted imaging approach for the early localization of inflammatory processes.

Background

Inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract often act like a Trojan horse. While camouflaging themselves with diffuse clinical symptoms, they may rapidly progress into life-threatening complications.

To date, it has been difficult to precisely localize them in their early stages, and their detection remains the domain of invasive endoscopy. The invasive nature of this method not only restricts its use for early disease detection but is also a major limitation for repetitive or high-risk applications.

Methodology

MSOT uses laser light excitation and ultrasound detection to resolve different chromophores such as:

1. Haemoglobin
2. Lipids
3. Other metabolic parameters

These can be resolved at depths of several centimeters. While we were using the response from endogenous chromophores for translational applications, we discovered that dyes delivered via the oral route enable the dynamic visualization of the entire intestinal tract.

This molecular-sensitive approach has the advantage that such contrast agents are not absorbed systemically and undergo excretion largely unchanged.

Hypothesis

Based on this, I hypothesize that it is possible to functionalize such contrast agents in order to put a molecular flag on inflamed areas in the gastrointestinal tract.

Research Approach

After characterizing potential imaging targets in the intestinal lumen and developing imaging agents, we will take a translational research approach, moving from:

1. Cells
2. Small experimental animal models
3. Large experimental animal models
4. Back to the human system

Conclusion

This research at the frontiers of medicine and physics may pave the way to non-invasive early detection and personalized treatment strategies while minimizing the procedural risk for affected patients.