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Integrating Tumor Hypoxic Sensing and Photothermal Therapy Using a Miniaturized Fiber-Optic Theranostic Probe
Fangzhou Jin1,2, Zhiyuan Xu3, Wei Wang1,2
1Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Optical Fiber Sensing and Communications, Institute of Photonics Technology Jinan University Guangzhou 510632 China.
Small Science
|April 11, 2025
Summary
An integrated fiber-optic theranostic (iFOT) probe combines tumor sensing and photothermal therapy for deep-seated tumors. This novel approach enhances treatment efficacy and integrates with existing medical technologies for improved cancer care.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Oncology
Background:
- Efficient photon delivery is crucial for treating deep-seated tumors using photothermal therapy.
- Current fiber-optic theranostics lack integration, leading to complex procedures and limited compatibility.
- A need exists for compact, continuous, and adaptable theranostic tools for deep tumor treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an integrated fiber-optic theranostic (iFOT) probe for simultaneous tumor microenvironment sensing and photothermal therapy.
- To functionalize the iFOT probe with graphene/gold nanostar hybrid materials and hypoxic-responsive fluorophores.
- To evaluate the iFOT probe's sensitivity in detecting tumor hypoxia and its efficacy in photothermal therapy in vivo.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of an iFOT probe by functionalizing an optical fiber with graphene/gold nanostar hybrid materials and hypoxic-responsive fluorophores.
- In vivo testing on xenograft mouse tumor models to assess hypoxia detection sensitivity.
- Evaluation of photothermal therapy efficacy and cure rates using the same iFOT probe, coupled with imaging-assisted navigation via interventional trocar.
Main Results:
- The iFOT probe demonstrated high sensitivity in detecting hypoxia in xenograft tumors.
- Successful on-site photothermal therapy of tumors was achieved using the same fiber probe, resulting in a high cure rate.
- The iFOT probe showed high adaptability to conventional medical imaging and endoscopic techniques.
Conclusions:
- The developed iFOT probe effectively integrates tumor sensing and photothermal therapy for deep-seated tumors.
- This technology offers a compact, continuous, and adaptable solution compatible with current medical practices.
- The iFOT probe represents a significant advancement for endoscopic and interventional oncology, potentially revolutionizing diagnosis and therapy integration.

