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POSTECH Researchers Develop Photoacoustic Imaging System for Early Stroke Detection
Every year, millions of people succumb to strokes, a condition that occurs when blood flow to the brain is obstructed, leading to potentially irreversible brain damage. In a groundbreaking advancement, researchers at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) have developed a cutting-edge imaging technology that utilizes both light and sound to monitor stroke progression in real time. Their findings have been published in the prestigious journal Advanced Science.
The Need for Real-Time Stroke Monitoring
Stroke remains the second most common cause of death worldwide, with ischemic stroke—the most prevalent type—occurring when a blood vessel supplying the brain is blocked. Timely intervention is critical, as delays in treatment can lead to rapid and permanent brain tissue damage. Traditional imaging technologies like CT scans and MRIs, while effective, lack the ability to continuously capture vascular changes in real time. Moreover, current research methods using animal models face limitations in both scope and efficiency.
Introducing Photoacoustic Computed Tomography (PACT)
To address these challenges, the POSTECH research team has developed a novel imaging technique known as photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT). This innovative system integrates light and ultrasound technology to enable real-time, non-invasive monitoring of cerebrovascular changes during the early stages of an ischemic stroke.
The research team employed a complex scanning method that combines linear and rotational scanning to generate images from multiple angles, ultimately synthesizing them into a high-resolution 3D image. This approach allows for a more comprehensive visualization of vascular changes than traditional imaging techniques.
Key Findings and Implications
Using this advanced PACT technology, researchers successfully monitored early-stage ischemic stroke progression in small animal models. The system provided precise, non-invasive observations of hemoglobin levels and oxygen saturation in individual blood vessels by utilizing multi-wavelength photoacoustic imaging in the near-infrared spectrum.
This innovation enabled researchers to track ischemic lesions, collateral blood flow, and neovascular changes with exceptional accuracy. The results were validated against existing pathological tissue tests, proving the reliability of PACT in monitoring vascular recovery after a stroke.
A Game-Changer for Stroke and Neurological Research
According to the POSTECH research team, the most significant breakthrough of this study is the ability to precisely observe blood flow dynamics without the need for contrast agents. This not only revolutionizes stroke research but also has far-reaching implications for the study of various neurological and vascular diseases.
“The ability to non-invasively monitor cerebrovascular changes in real time represents a major leap forward in stroke research and treatment development,” the researchers stated. “This technology will open new avenues for experimental approaches in understanding and treating neurological disorders.”
Reference and Further Reading
More information: Jiwoong Kim et al, Non‐Invasive Photoacoustic Cerebrovascular Monitoring of Early‐Stage Ischemic Strokes In Vivo, Advanced Science (2024). DOI: 10.1002/advs.202409361
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.
