1.25 million euro for thermoacoustic imaging project

Near-field thermoacoustics measurement is a totally new imaging technique that is likely to benefit medical practitioners and biology researchers. Thermoacoustic imaging works by exposing the tissue to harmless wide-band short-pulse transient electromagnetic radiation. The irradiated area heats up, causing tiny vibrations which can be recorded using ultrasound detectors. This results in high-contrast and ultra-high-resolution radiofrequency images of normal tissues, tumors and other pathological changes, even if the area of interest is embedded deep within tissue.

Now that he has been granted Reinhart Koselleck Project funding, Prof. Ntziachristos and his team at Technische Universitaet Muenchen will advance their research into the basics of near-field thermoacoustic measurements and imaging, and systematically document their findings. In particular, they will investigate how to optimize the impact of electromagnetic waves on tissue for imaging purposes. Another priority will be to develop a measurement and imaging method that doctors can use for mobile diagnostics and check-ups. "Near-field thermoacoustics is a very exciting new development in high-resolution diagnostic and theranostic imaging," says Prof. Vasilis Ntziachristos. "Thanks to the DFG funding, we can explore it in great depth over the next few years."

Provided by Technical University Munich