KOSEN 한인과학기술자네트워크

Photoacoustic and Ultrasound Imaging Laboratory

Our laboratory is mainly focused on Ultrasound and Photoacoustic imaging projects that will complement current diagnostic 2D/3D imaging technologies to detect vulnerable plaque and blood vessel diseases. In photoacoustic imaging, non-ionizing laser pulses are delivered into biological tissues (when radio frequency pulses are used, the technology is referred to as thermoacoustic imaging). Some of the delivered energy will be absorbed and converted into heat, leading to transient thermoelastic expansion and thus wideband (i.e. MHz) ultrasonic emission. The generated ultrasonic waves are detected by ultrasonic transducers and then analyzed to produce images. It is known that optical absorption is closely associated with physiological properties, such as hemoglobin concentration and oxygen saturation.

Our goal is to develop 3D TEE photoacoustic imaging technologies for vulnerable plaque, endocarditis, thrombus(cardiac, cerebral thrombosis), and skin that will benefit the humanity for better lives. Using our novel patented approach to adapt this photoacoustic technology, we will design high contrast imaging devices to help physicians evaluate early prognosis, response to drugs, target accurate biopsies and translational research.

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Advantages of Photoacoustic Imaging

PA imaging is non-ionizing and non-invasive.

PA signal strength depends on the optical absorption coefficient of absorber in the medium and the signal frequency depends on the size of the absorber and duration of the illuminating pulse.

PA imaging provides functional information such as hemoglobin concentration, oxygen saturation and lipid content.

It aids in detection of cancer along with disorders including but not limited to fibrosis, perfusion, edema, hypoxia and necrosis.

Dr. Chul Gyu Song,

Cell.

Professor, Department of Electronic Engineering