Recent advances at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) have shown that specially designed nanoparticles can greatly improve ultrasound-based cancer treatments. This innovation promises safer, more effective tumour destruction and a lower chance of recurrence.
Challenges with Traditional Ultrasound Therapy
High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) can destroy tumours non-invasively but requires high energy, which risks damaging healthy tissue and sometimes leaves behind cancer cells that cause the tumour to come back.
Nanoparticles to the Rescue
Researchers at OHSU developed tiny nanoparticles with bubbles that respond to focused ultrasound by releasing energy directly at the tumour site. Coated with peptides, these particles specifically target cancer cells and improve drug delivery.
Combining Ultrasound and Chemotherapy
By attaching chemotherapy drugs to these nanoparticles, the treatment delivers a “one-two punch”, ultrasound physically breaks down tumours while the drug kills any remaining cancer cells, preventing regrowth.