Methods of monitoring effects of chemical agents on a sample

Abstract

The invention provides methods and systems for monitoring effects of chemical agents on optical signals produced by samples in response to the chemical agents. Preferred methods comprise application of multiple chemical agents that interact to alter an optical signal from the sample. Methods and systems of the invention also comprise monitoring an optical signal from an endogenous chromophore upon application of a chemical agent to a sample. Methods and systems of the invention also comprise the use of triggers, atomizers and image alignment to enhance the results of methods described herein.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates generally to spectral analysis. More particularly, in one embodiment, the invention relates to determining chemically-induced changes of optical spectra. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Direct visual observation alone is often inadequate for identification of abnormalities in a specimen being examined, whether the specimen is a biological specimen or otherwise. Observation of many medical conditions in biological specimens of all kinds is well known. It is common in medical examination to perform visual examinations in disease diagnosis. For example, visual examination of the cervix can discern areas where there is a “suspicion” of pathology. In some instances, filters can be used to improve visual differentiation of normal and abnormal tissues. In other situations, when tissues of the cervix are examined in vivo, chemical agents such as acetic acid can be applied to enhance the differences in appearance between normal and pathological are...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Direct visual observation alone is often inadequate for identification of abnormalities in a specimen being examined, whether the specimen is a biological specimen or otherwise.

Certain of these systems and methods have limitations that render them unsuitable for use as screening procedures.

While there have been extensive developments in the field of cancer diagnosis, none of these are well adapted for screening large populations.

Techniques such as biopsies, while being the definitive determination of the presence of disease, are labor-intensive and operator-dependent, thus unsuitable for screening large populations.

As another example, medical imaging techniques, depending on their cost, resource requirements and patient accessibility, may be unsuitable for population screening.

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