Development of Image processing methods for Enhanced Tumor Ultrasound Imaging

Nanobubble ultrasound contrast agents are capable of extravasating beyond the vasculature when vasculature is leaky (e.g. a tumor). As such, these agents can have prolonged retention in tissue beyond the vascular network, contributing to unique time-dependent ultrasound signals. The enhanced access of nanobubbles agents to deeper tissue translates directly to disease detection and prognosis. In the example of cancerous tumors, for instance, enhanced nanobubble access has the potential to contribute to the detection of necrosis or hypoxia. However, for rapid and comprehensive visualization of the tumor environment,  one must distinguish between intravascular and intravascular agents. This project aims to develop new image processing methods for nanobubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound in cancer. We recently found that the mapping of high-order statistics of nanobubble time-intensity curves are an excellent imaging biomarker for tumor microenvironment assessment. Using our new methods of processing, we are able to rapidly and noninvasively assess tumor heterogeneity. Ongoing research is investigating the translation of the methods to other disease models which also express pathologically leaky vasculature.

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For more information on this project contact dana.wegierak2@case.edu