A new method for tumor detection using induced acoustic waves from tagged magnetic nanoparticles

Magnetoacoustic detection is a new method for the noninvasive, early detection of cancer. It uses specific superparamagnetic nanoparticles (NPs) that bind to tumor sites together with magnetic excitation and acoustic detection of the tumor-NPs complex. This work tests the feasibility of such method theoretically and experimentally. An extensive analytic model has been developed that shows an ability to detect small tumors, a few centimeters deep inside the tissue. A series of experiments were conducted to validate the theoretical model. The performance of specially designed solenoids was measured, and the detection of the tumor presence in phantom was demonstrated. Experimental results agree well with the theoretical calculations, providing preliminary proof of concept. We demonstrate the ability to detect a 5-mm diameter spherical tumor located 3 cm deep. Instrumentation and measurements are inexpensive and accurate. The accuracy, speed, and costs of this method show the potential for early detection of cancer.From the Clinical EditorA sensitive and cost effective magentoacoustic tumor detection method is presented in this paper using superparamagnetic nanoparticles. The method is demonstrated in a phantom by detecting a 5-mm diameter spherical tumor located 3 cm deep.

Graphical AbstractMagneto-acoustic detection is a new method designed for the noninvasive, early detection of cancer. In an earlier paper the method was tested on purely theoretical grounds. Results were encouraging, showing an ability to detect small tumors, a few cm deep inside the tissue. This paper presents a series of experiments conducted to validate the theoretical model. Measurements of specially designed solenoids are performed to measure their electrical behavior and magnetic field, as well as the magnetic force they apply. Measurements of the acoustic signal and detection of the tumor presence in phantom are demonstrated. Results agree well with the theoretical calculations and provide preliminary proof of concept. We demonstrate the ability to detect a 5 mm diameter spherical tumor located 3 cm deep. Volume of approximately 170 cm3 is quickly measured (< 1 ms). Instrumentation and measurements are inexpensive and accurate. The accuracy, speed, and costs of this method show the potential for early detection of cancer.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (136 K)Download as PowerPoint slide