NYUAD Unveils Light-Based Nanotechnology for Cancer Detection
Researchers in Abu Dhabi have developed a light-based nanotechnology that could reshape how certain cancers are detected and treated. Instead of relying on chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery, the approach offers a more precise and potentially less harmful alternative. As a result, it aims to reduce damage to healthy tissue while improving treatment accuracy.
The innovation builds on photothermal therapy, which uses light to generate heat inside tumors. In this case, scientists engineered tiny, biocompatible, and biodegradable nanoparticles that carry a dye activated by near-infrared light. When exposed to this light, the particles heat up, and they selectively damage tumor tissue while largely sparing surrounding cells.
Why Near-Infrared Light Matters
Near-infrared light was selected because it penetrates deeper into the body than visible light. Consequently, it allows treatment of tumors that are not close to the surface. However, photothermal therapy has long faced challenges, particularly with keeping light-responsive materials stable in the body.
Many existing agents degrade quickly or are removed from the bloodstream too soon. Because of this, they often fail to reach cancer cells in sufficient amounts. To address these limitations, the research team focused on improving both stability and delivery efficiency.
Targeted Nanoparticles and Real-Time Imaging
To overcome these challenges, the researchers designed nanoparticles made from hydroxyapatite, a mineral naturally found in bones and teeth. In addition, the particles are coated with lipids and polymers, which help them circulate longer in the bloodstream and avoid immune detection. A specially designed peptide on the surface becomes active in the mildly acidic tumor environment, thereby allowing the particles to enter cancer cells more effectively.
The study showed that the nanoparticles remain highly stable and protect their dye from degradation. Moreover, they accumulate efficiently in tumors. When activated by near-infrared light, they generate localized heat to destroy tumor tissue. At the same time, they produce fluorescent and thermal signals, which enables real-time imaging and treatment monitoring.
Mazin Magzoub, associate professor of biology at NYU Abu Dhabi and senior author of the study, stated that, “This work brings together targeted treatment and imaging in a single, biocompatible and biodegradable system. By addressing key challenges in delivering therapeutic agents to tumors, our approach has the potential to improve cancer treatment precision.”
Overall, the findings point to a significant step forward. By combining targeted therapy with real-time imaging, the integrated nanoparticle system could pave the way for safer and more effective light-based cancer treatments.
