Seminars

The overall goal of my research program is to develop molecular imaging probes to improve the diagnostic yield of non- or minimally-invasive imaging procedures and diagnostic assays. Our approaches are designed to better differentiate malignant and benign lesions down to the single cell level, and to target potentially cancerous lesions throughout the body using novel contrast agents. In particular, we are integrating two complementary approaches to achieve this goal. First, we are developing new oligonucleotide-based optical imaging probes, termed 'Ratiometric BiMolecular Beacons' (RBMBs), that allow for the sensitive detection of RNA (RNA) in single living cells. Our goal is to develop a simple assay that can be adopted for 'rapid on-site cytological evaluation' to assist with therapeutic and surgical decisions. Second, we are developing strategies to specifically and efficiently target cancer biomarkers in living subjects with magnetic resonance (MR) contrast agents. This non-invasive molecular imaging approach will allow us to more accurately and sensitively identify potentially cancerous lesions that should be biopsied for further evaluation. Notably, the development of MR contrast agents could also have an important impact on the ability of radiologists to monitor tumor response to therapy, locate metastatic disease, and evaluate the availability of therapeutic targets.