Grants for projects

NanoZoom

Nanoparticles as innovative high resolution and depth contrast agents for tumour imaging
Eco healthcare
Spoke5_NanoZoomimage
Scheda del progetto
Responsabile
P.i Scientific Resp.
Professor Valentina Cauda, Polytechnic of Torino
Team
Team
Dr. Veronica Vighetto
Dr. Nicolò Percivalle
Data
Start date
Durata
Duration
14 months
Valore
Approved value
€ 88.448,16
Investimento
Investment nodes
€ 88.448,16
Dipartimento
Department
Department of Applied Science and Technology

Cancer is one of the leading cause of death globally, and early diagnsosi is crucial to improving treatments. 

The NanoZoom project aims to develop and optimize an experimental diagnostic system using ultrasonic pressure probes and biomimetic nanoparticles (Lipo-NPs) to detect tumors quickly and accurately. Lipo-NPs enhance ultrasound contrast and enable enhanced sonoluminescence, providing high-resolution diagnostic images.

 

Biocompatible and non-toxic, these nanoparticles increase the precision of diagnosis for colon and breast cancers. Artificial intelligence reconstructs detailed 3D images, promising a revolution in oncological diagnosis. 

 

 

 

 

Contact:

Contact person
Valentina Cauda 

Email
valentina.cauda@polito.it

Tel
+39 0110907389

+39 3336333043

 

The goal
Document

The main challenge is to create a complete and accurate image of the affected area using an artificial intelligence algorithm that integrates data from both imaging techniques. 

 

The primary objectives include: 

1- Develop an instrument prototype for the dual imaging system

2- Preclinically validating the system on 2D and 3D cell cultures, studying image formation 

3- Implementing an artificial intelligence algorithm for creating 3D images.

Why is it innovative
Document

The innovation of the project lies in the selective targeting of cancer cells, sparing healthy ones, and the absence of toxicity to healthy tissues. The nanoparticles, injectable intravenously or intratumorally, offer colloidal stability, hemocompatibility and serve as a contrast agent for ultrasound and sonoluminescence. 

Produced synthetically at low cost and highly reproducible, these nanoparticles biodegrade into safe byproducts and utilize components approved by EMA and FDA, employing EU-MDR certified clinical instruments. 

Impact on the users
Document

The project has a significant impact in the healthcare sector for patients with colorectal and breast cancer. It advances scientific knowledge of sonoluminescence and improves combined imaging techniques by developing an AI algorithm for precise 3D images. Biomedically, it offers hifh resolution and specificity, enhancing early tumor recognition. Clinically, it improves patients' quality of life through early diagnosis. Industrially, it expands the use of ultrasonic transducers to activate nanoparticles for sonoluminescence.