Photothermal Cancer Treatments

This project is advancing a next-generation cancer treatment approach that combines infrared light technology with engineered gold nanoparticle-dye conjugates to create a more targeted, minimally invasive alternative to conventional cancer therapies. In collaboration with Colorado Springs startup Lahjavida, the research focuses on optimizing photothermal treatment methods that selectively target cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.

By integrating nanotechnology, biochemistry, and applied physics, the project bridges fundamental scientific discovery with real-world biomedical applications. The work also creates a collaborative research environment where undergraduate and graduate students gain hands-on experience in emerging medical technologies, translational research, and interdisciplinary 

The Problem: Current cancer treatment methods are often invasive, physically taxing, and associated with significant side effects that can negatively impact patient quality of life. Existing therapies may also struggle to precisely target cancer cells without damaging surrounding healthy tissue, creating a need for safer, more effective treatment strategies. 

The Innovation: This project develops a novel photothermal cancer treatment platform that uses infrared lasers or LED light sources combined with gold nanoparticle-dye conjugates to selectively target and destroy cancer cells. By maximizing light-to-heat conversion efficiency and improving active tumor targeting, the technology aims to create a more precise, less invasive, and potentially more effective cancer treatment approach.