Core C has both research and service goals, with the overall theme of developing new and useful imaging and dosimetry approaches to help optimize PDT, both for experimental protocols as well as clinical trials.
The systems used by each project vary considerably, yet the file systems, data analysis, planning, and dosimetry concepts can be centralized and inter-project communication in this area can significantly enhance the quality of research.
These aims all work with the projects to ensure that developments from one project may assist in another and that methods, doses, image files, and developed software gets used to the highest potential.
In the first project, Core C will test PDT dosimetry innovations, including a smartphone-based fluorescence imaging platform as well as an instrument for human oxygen testing that will provide a low-cost alternative for PpIX dosimetry.
Core C will also work to measure pancreatic cancer responses using x-ray CT scans and endoscopic ultrasound features. PDT and PDP responses will be explored through elastography, and algorithms will be used for tissue stiffness mapping. These methods will be augmented with radiometric analysis that will provide surrogates of immune invasion in pre- and post-treatment CT scans.
Additionally, the core will develop new ways to assess PDP response in fresh tissue by using in situ measures of tissue stiffness and collagen. A fast and efficient method of analyzing PDP treatment by measuring edema and lymphocyte infiltration and activation in murine tumor models will be developed. This will be correlated with the radiometric analysis previously mentioned.
The core will assist in establishing truly useful dosimetry tools customized for clinical trials. The variance of PS concentration will be studied in both skin and pancreatic cancer models. Quantification of key receptor changes in vivo will be developed. Specialized instrumentation and expertise exist across all four centers. with a large locus of tools and equipment in the MGH & Dartmouth sites, and this will be coordinated, scheduled, and training provided through quarterly planned organizational meetings.
Though technical experts exist at each center, these frequent meetings coordinated by the core help ensure that expertise and resources are utilized to maximum benefit. The complexity of technologies used is high, and sharing expertise about these significantly benefits the overall program participants. The complex issue of technology transfer is incorporated, as we have multiple partners in companies, as well as experienced technology transfer offices of each institution, and the CIMIT center at MGH.
Coordination of this with high-level planning meetings is central to ensuring that technologies and methodologies are translated into the program or out of the program into industrial use.