photonics

Intravascular optical coherence tomography (IV-OCT) is used to inform doctors about the shape and structure of hardened artery buildups, torn arteries, and blood clots in the heart. While the method is useful for anatomical imaging, researchers believe it can be pushed further to realize its potential to assist in earlier detection and risk assessment of heart conditions.

A new contrast imaging agent, developed at the University of Ottawa and designed specifically for use with IV-OCT, could make it possible to use IV-OCT to identify the initial signs of heart disease and stratify patient risk.

The new contrast agent, named AuSC@(13FS)2, is made of gold superclusters (AuSCs) that work with the IR light used in IV-OCT. The AuSCs...