Nanoparticle-enabled terahertz imaging for cancer diagnosis

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Imaging
• Terahertz Technology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Cancer cell detection remains a challenge.
• Terahertz (THz) imaging offers non-ionizing radiation benefits.
• Nanoparticles can enhance imaging contrast.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the nanoparticle-contrast-agent-enabled terahertz imaging (CATHI) technique.
• To assess the sensitivity enhancement for cancer cell detection using gold nanorods (GNRs).
• To explore the feasibility of THz endoscopy.

Main Methods:

• Utilized gold nanorods (GNRs) as contrast agents.
• Applied infrared (IR) laser irradiation to GNRs in cancer cells.
• Measured terahertz (THz) reflection signals in differential mode.

Main Results:

• A 20% increase in THz reflection signal from cancer cells with GNRs upon IR laser irradiation.
• The differential THz signal was 30 times higher for cancer cells with GNRs compared to those without.
• Achieved high sensitivity due to surface plasmon resonance and temperature rise.

Conclusions:

• CATHI technique significantly improves sensitivity for cancer cell detection.
• The method leverages surface plasmon resonance for enhanced contrast.
• The technique offers potential for micron-level resolution and THz endoscopy.