Fluorescent Phospholipid Ether Compounds for Deep Tissue Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current tumor detection methods face challenges with high light scattering, autofluorescence, and absorption in tissues, limiting the effectiveness of optical imaging, particularly in endoscopic procedures for malignancies like colon and lung cancers, where deeper tissue penetration and reduced background interference are needed.
Innovation Solution
Development of fluorescent phospholipid ether (PLE) compounds that emit light in the near-infrared spectrum, allowing for deeper tissue imaging with reduced background interference and improved detection of malignancies during endoscopic procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical imaging is performed in the mid-visible band, then imaging can be conducted with standard equipment, but light scattering, autofluorescence, and hemoglobin absorption significantly limit imaging depth and quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of imaging wavelength from the mid-visible band to the near-infrared band (700-1100 nm). This parameter change exploits the optical window in tissue where absorption by hemoglobin and scattering are minimized, and autofluorescence is negligible, thereby improving imaging quality and depth penetration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional daylight channel imaging to near-infrared fluorescence imaging, adding a new dimensional capability for deep tissue visualization. This enables detection of tumors and lymph node metastases at depths of several millimeters to nearly a centimeter beneath the body cavity surface
2Measurement precision
If endoscopes use only a daylight channel, then the system is simple and cost-effective, but it cannot detect tumors at deeper tissue depths or with enhanced contrast
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-channel endoscope system that integrates both daylight channel and near-infrared fluorescence channel functionalities. This universal device can perform both standard visual examination and enhanced fluorescence imaging, allowing tumor detection with improved sensitivity while maintaining compatibility with existing endoscopic workflows
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the imaging function into distinct wavelength channels: the daylight channel for anatomical visualization and the near-infrared fluorescence channel for molecular imaging. This segmentation allows each channel to be optimized for its specific function while working together to provide comprehensive diagnostic information
3Illumination intensity
If fluorescent markers are used in the visible spectrum, then they provide strong fluorescence signals, but they suffer from high background autofluorescence and limited tissue penetration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fluorescence emission wavelength parameter from the visible spectrum to the near-infrared spectrum (700-1100 nm). This shift places the fluorescence signal in the optical window where tissue autofluorescence is minimal and light penetration is maximized, thereby improving signal-to-background ratio and imaging depth
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the typically harmful effect of tissue autofluorescence into a beneficial diagnostic feature by selecting near-infrared wavelengths where autofluorescence is negligible. This allows the background that plagues visible light imaging to become transparent, enabling clear visualization of fluorescently labeled tumors and lymph nodes
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The use of fluorescent PLE compounds enables more accurate and deeper tissue imaging, enhancing the detection of tumors and lymph node metastases by minimizing background autofluorescence and improving visualization of malignancies during endoscopic examinations.
Implementation Method 1
Fluorescent imaging has proven to be an efficient tool for preclinical cancer research, antitumor drug discovery and pharmacological developments by providing images of the bio-distribution of fluorescent markers
Data Source
AI summary
The invention generally relates to novel fluorescent phospholipid compounds and compositions comprising these compounds. A preferred compound of the present invention has the following structural formula: