APPLICATION OF TECHNOLOGY:

• Predicting future recurrence of acute coronary syndromes
  
• In vitro mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy imaging of cells influencing atherosclerosis development
  
• In vivo characterization of atherosclerotic plaques
  
• Monitoring the effect of medical treatment on plaques

ADVANTAGES:

• Only accurate method for the early identification of vulnerable plaques
  
• Does not use labeling compounds
  
• Detects cholesterol accumulation, thin fibrous caps, foam cells, infiltrated inflammatory cells, excessive NO production, and excessive apoptotic/necrotic cells

ABSTRACT:

Hoi-Ying Holman has developed the only existing intravascular diagnostic method that is robust enough for the early and accurate identification of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques. While other techniques focus on plaque structure and activity, this invention is the first based on the pathology and chemistry of inflammatory cells in plaques - crucial factors that determine heart attack risk. This photonic method, which does not use labeling compounds, will also minimize risks to patients while improving scientists' and physicians' ability to monitor the effects of medical treatment on plaques.

The invention detects cholesterol accumulation, thin fibrous caps, foam cells, infiltrated inflammatory cells, excessive NO production, and excessive apoptotic/necrotic cells.

STATUS: Published Patent Application. Available for licensing or collaborative research

REFERENCE NUMBER: IB-1867

SEE THESE OTHER BERKELEY LAB TECHNOLOGIES IN THIS FIELD:

• Cells-On-A-Chip: Apparatus for Real-Time and Label-Free Molecular Imaging of Live Cells and Bacteria, JIB-2201