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Ovarian Cancer Detection Using Photoacoustic Flow Cytometry
Published on: January 17, 2020
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Ovarian Cancer Detection Using Photoacoustic Flow Cytometry
Joel F Lusk1, Christopher Miranda1, Barbara S Smith2
1School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University.
Journal of Visualized Experiments : Jove
|February 4, 2020
Summary
This study introduces a new photoacoustic flow cytometry method for detecting ovarian cancer cells. Using targeted nanoparticles, this approach shows promise for sensitive and specific early detection of circulating tumor cells.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Oncology
Background:
- Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) show potential as prognostic markers for ovarian cancer.
- Current CTC detection methods lack the sensitivity and specificity for clinical use in early metastasis detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel, sensitive, and specific method for detecting ovarian circulating tumor cells (CTCs).
- To utilize photoacoustic flow cytometry (PAFC) with targeted nanoparticles for enhanced ovarian cancer cell detection.
Main Methods:
- Developed a custom 3D-printed photoacoustic flow cytometry system with a flow chamber and syringe pump.
- Synthesized and utilized folic acid-capped copper sulfide nanoparticles (FA-CuS NPs) as contrast agents.
- Targeted SKOV-3 ovarian cancer cells using FA-CuS NPs and detected them via PAFC.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated the affinity of FA-CuS NPs for ovarian cancer cells.
- Characterized the nanoparticles and confirmed PAFC detection capabilities.
- Showcased NP uptake in cancer cells via fluorescence microscopy, validating the system's potential.
Conclusions:
- The novel PAFC system with FA-CuS NPs shows significant potential for detecting ovarian CTCs.
- This method offers improved sensitivity and specificity for early ovarian cancer metastasis detection.
- The system can detect ovarian CTCs at physiologically relevant concentrations.
