Register for free to
view the full innovation profile.
The new novel method combines the specific detection of unstable, prone to rupture plaques with their therapy.
About
Summary The suggested innovative method for ASVD treatment combines two well-known technologies: 1) Diffusion reflection – Analyzing light-tissue interaction followed by deep light penetration, absorption, and excitation processes. The optical properties of the irradiated tissue can be characterized from the reflected light after its diffusion within the tissue. 2) Contrast agents molecular imaging (using gold nanorods) – The contrast agents being used are gold nanorods (GNRs). Macrophages, which are a major component of unstable “vulnerable” atherosclerotic plaques, are able to uptake GNRs, resulting in a change in their optical properties. ASVD detection and treatment is based on the diffusion reflection (DR) measurements of gold nanorods. Project Status The approach was successfully simulated and demonstrated on tissue like phantoms as well as in vivo in rats and mice with artery balloon injury model. With high sensitivity (90%), selectivity and specificity (97%), this new technology enables the simple and fast ASVD detection with no intrusive surgery and up to 6 mm deep in the tissue. Commercial Significance The ability to quantitatively and noninvasively detect nanoparticles in vivo based on the combination of Diffusion Reflection and Gold nanorods due to their nontoxicity to living cells, biocompatibility and favorable optical properties, could provide a promising ASVD detection and treatment tool. Ex vivo high resolution CT scan of rats' injured arteries two weeks post GNRs injection. (a) Injured artery following GNRs injection. Gold still appear, indicating the presence of the macrophages within this artery. (b) The injured artery following the GNRs-HDL injection. The artery presents no GNRs accumulation, suggesting the macrophages detachment from injured site.