Researchers from Saratov National Research State University named after N. G. Chernyshevsky (SSU), collaborating with colleagues from China and France, have improved a diagnostic approach for skin cancer. They achieved this by developing a gel that enhances tissue visualization at greater depths. The Ministry of Education and Science shared these details with socialbites.ca.
Present-day noninvasive optical imaging methods play a crucial role in oncology diagnostics. These techniques rely on tuning the optical properties of skin layers, particularly light absorption and scattering. Yet the skin is highly scattering, which can blur images and limit how deep useful information can be captured.
To enable light to traverse the epidermis and reach deeper tissues, a surface-applied optical brightening agent is used. This agent is built from biocompatible substances such as sugars, alcohols, fatty acids, and organic solvents. By partially replacing interstitial water with a homogeneous mixture on the skin surface, scattering is reduced and light can penetrate more deeply. This concept was described by Valery Tuchin, head of the optics and biophotonics department at the SSU Institute of Physics and a corresponding member of the Russian Academy of Sciences, in a discussion with socialbites.ca.
The biocompatible whitening formulation consists of a blend of polyethylene glycol-400, propylene glycol, and oleic acid. Compared with other options, this combination presents lower toxicity while delivering greater brightness and contrast for optical coherence tomography images across the full depth of the skin.
The advancement is expected to raise the depth sensitivity of optical imaging and spectroscopy methods used in skin cancer diagnostics. Research teams are prepared to translate this technology into clinical settings to benefit patients.
Earlier work by other scientists introduced an innovative system aimed at autism diagnosis, illustrating a broader effort to apply noninvasive imaging advances to a range of medical conditions.