0
0
Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) have pioneered a novel catheter-based device that merges two potent optical techniques to image arterial plaques, potentially revolutionizing treatments for heart attacks and strokes.
Atherosclerosis, the buildup of fats and cholesterol in artery walls, poses a significant health risk by narrowing blood vessels and potentially leading to heart attacks or strokes. To combat this threat, the UCSF team developed a cutting-edge device capable of imaging atherosclerotic plaques with unprecedented precision.
The innovative device combines fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) and polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography (PSOCT) to deliver comprehensive insights into plaque composition, morphology, and microstructure. FLIM offers details about extracellular matrix composition and inflammation, while PSOCT provides high-resolution morphological information, including collagen content and lipid levels.
Dr. Laura Marcu from UCSF underscored the importance of this advancement: “Better clinical management made possible by advanced intravascular imaging tools will benefit patients by providing more accurate information to help cardiologists tailor treatment or by supporting the development of new therapies.”
The hybrid catheter system boasts a thin, flexible design suitable for navigating complex arterial pathways, ensuring minimal disruption during imaging procedures. By integrating FLIM and PSOCT into a single device, the researchers achieved a significant milestone in intravascular imaging technology.
Julien Bec, lead author of the study, highlighted the device’s potential for longitudinal studies, enabling clinicians to monitor plaque evolution and treatment responses over time. “This will be very valuable to better understand disease evolution, evaluate the efficacy of new drugs and treatments, and guide stenting procedures used to restore normal blood flow,” he said.
The researchers conducted extensive testing to validate the device’s functionality, including experiments on artificial tissue and healthy pig arteries. In vivo testing in swine hearts demonstrated the system’s efficacy, paving the way for further clinical validation in human patients.
Moving forward, the team plans to utilize the device to image plaques in human coronary arteries, comparing optical signals with plaque characteristics identified by pathologists to refine prediction models. With continued advancements, this groundbreaking technology holds promise for enhancing treatments and outcomes for individuals at risk of heart disease and stroke.
