Development of X-Ray instrumentation for analysis of biological tissue and other material applications

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X-Ray analysis is a versatile radiation physics technique that can quantify the elemental composition of materials by observing the interactions of X-Rays with matter. The sample preparation is generally straightforward and the necessary instrumentation can be made compact, such that it can be deployed for compositional analysis in diverse locations and in-field applications. The techniques are also non-destructive which makes it ideal for investigating biological tissue samples that can then be further analysed, and for characterizing irreplaceable samples such as archeological objects and fine art. My research program seeks to expand the applications of X-Ray analysis techniques and harness their full potential. In 2009, I established the X-Ray Analysis Laboratory at McMaster University, which now houses a suite of X-Ray instrumentation and HQP with expertise in their use. Our research program will now focus on developing new instrumentation to expand the sensitivity of techniques that will be used for new applications in tumour assessment, skin analysis, explosive detection and brain tissue examination. HQP will be fully involved in designing and building these instruments and optimizing their use for emerging applications. They will also travel with me and take part in experiments at synchrotron radiation facilities worldwide to continue research using powerful beams of X-Ray light for projects that complement our main laboratory research program. Specific goals of the research program are to develop instrumentation and execute projects for the applications described in this proposal and summarized below. Instrumentation for the intra operative assessment of surgical margins in breast cancer. This work will design and build a Tri-Axial XRF system in combination with an Energy Dispersive X-Ray Diffraction system that will improve on technology we have used over the past 5 years. A system used in real time in operating theatres will impact surgeons, as they will have a tool that ensures removal of all malignant tissue, resulting in improved patient outcomes and help minimize the cost to health care providers in Canada. The instrumentation will have the potential for many material analysis applications within McMaster University from biological sample analysis to archaeological analysis and works of art. Possibilities for commercialization exists for such an instrument with wide potential market. Total Reflection XRF (TRXRF) instrumentation. This will have great impact on our current sensitivity and improve on our lower limits of detection. It will be of particular importance for our projects concerned with measuring elements in certain biological samples particularly the brain. Construct a detection system optimized for explosives or other contraband. The technology will enable a quick and sensitive screening capability for letters and small parcels that could easily be located at sensitive locations throughout Canada and beyond. Once again, success of this project could also lead to commercialization opportunities with a potentially large market in security applications. Other projects utilizing the instrumentation developed are described in the proposal and include: measuring iron levels in the skin as a surrogate marker for critical organ iron levels using X-Ray instrumentation designed to be optimized for measuring elements in the skin; measuring transition metal levels in the brain, a project that examines the role of metals in the brain and the effects on certain neurological diseases. This research program will encourage collaborations by providing world-class facilities and techniques for X-Ray analysis as well as continuing to produce HQP capable of moving into academic and industrial placements.