K-edge imaging for cOLOR Spectral Photon-Counting Computed Tomography in lung diseases IMAGING

Computed tomography (CT) is the mainstay of lung imaging because of its higher spatial resolution, convenience, availability and faster time of acquisition in comparison with other imaging methods such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear imaging.

However, CTs lack of specificity and absolute quantitative capabilities limits the comprehensive guidance of therapeutic strategies based on imaging assessment of oncologic, inflammatory, and fibrotic pathophysiology processes.

Spectral photon-counting CT is an emerging CT technology that not only capitalises on all CTs advantages but also offers a cutting-edge method of imaging, called Color K-edge imaging.

This method allows the specific and quantitative identification of one or multiple atoms concomitantly within a tissue, enabling the simultaneous imaging of independent or interacting pathways.

However, K-edge imaging is still limited by its low sensitivity and the scarce availability of contrast agents for potential Human translation, and therefore has not been translated yet to practice.

Addressing these issues would be extremely beneficial to the diagnostic and theragnostic evaluation of lung diseases in general and more specifically, lung fibrosis and cancer.

Therefore, the goal of this proposal is to develop a framework of SPCCT Color K-edge imaging to provide high-resolution specific and quantitative imaging for non-targeting and targeting agents candidates, mainly from the nanobiotechnology field.

We will carry out preclinical studies to evaluate the contribution in combination with the contrast agents using different routes of injection, either by intravenous injection or inhalation, on key lung applications: cancer and fibrosis.

This will open to the concomitant imaging of lung ventilation and perfusion for monitoring the inflammation and pulmonary agent delivery in animal models.