We have previously demonstrated that high-resolution ultrasound imaging can be used to detect a special form of cell death caused by cancer therapy. This type of ultrasound imaging has the potential to be used to monitor cancer therapies and enable one to stop a treatment if the images and our software analysis show it is not effective. However, very little is known about the features and components in cells that give rise to the changes in ultrasound images we detect when cells are subjected to cancer therapy. In this study we will use cancer cells and a number of different drugs and procedures to identify the cellular components that are important in the formation of ultrasound images and the changes seen with cancer therapy. This knowledge will allow us to optimize the procedure and make it easier and faster to assess the treatment.
Most people are familiar with ultrasound imaging of the fetus.
These images help us infer anatomical structure. We will investigate the potential of this technique for the monitoring of tumor response to such treatments. This may provide rapid information about cancer treatment progression assisting the oncologist to decide whether to continue or stop the treatment to spare the patient the side effects. In this proposal, we will continue the investigation of the use of ultrasound technologies to improve cancer monitoring and treatment. Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is thought to play an important role in tumor response to cancer therapy.