Fibre-optic ultrasonic probe promises nanoscale diagnostics

fibre-optic ultrasonic imaging probe developed at Nottingham University.

Claimed to be a world first, the ultrasonic imaging system, which can be deployed on the tip of a thin optical fibre, will be insertable into the human body to visualise cell abnormalities in 3D.

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The new technology produces microscopic and nanoscopic resolution images likely to help clinicians to examine cells inhabiting hard-to-reach parts of the body, such as the gastrointestinal tract.

The EPSRC-funded device is said to deliver a level of performance only possible in advanced research labs. It also reduces the need for conventional fluorescent labels, which can be harmful to human cells in large doses. The findings are detailed in Light: Science & Applications.

“We believe its ability to measure the stiffness of a specimen, its bio-compatibility, and its endoscopic-potential, all while accessing the nanoscale, are what set it apart,” said paper author Dr Salvatore La Cavera III. “These features set the technology up for future measurements inside the body; towards the ultimate goal of minimally invasive point-of-care diagnostics.”