Research Opportunities

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Diagnosing Tissue with Light

Researchers in the Mediphotonics Laboratory at City College have developed a fluorescence-based optical biopsy system that uses the properties of light and its interaction with materials to provide a powerful tool to aid in the diagnosis of cancer. Optical biopsy can offer physicians significant advantages over traditional pathological measurements. The method is non-invasive and uses non-ionizing radiation to probe for tumors without damaging health tissue.

Potential Applications:
Endoscopic-based probes:

• Esophagus
• Stomach
• Colon
• Intestines
• Lungs
• Gynecological Tract

Stereotactic needle based probes:

• Breast
• Prostate
• Kidney

Other Areas:

• Aerodigestive Tract
• Operating Room

Benefits:

• Non-invasive. No tissue removal required.
• Rapid measurements with real time results.
• High spatial resolution to detect small tumors.
• Fluorescence imaging to clearly define tumorous regions.
• Potential to detect precancerous conditions.