Dual-axis Confocal Microscope for Image-guided Resection of Medulloblastoma

这一临床前项目结合了成像技术开发和生物标记物发现功能 儿童最常见的脑肿瘤髓母细胞瘤(MB)切除术中的影像指导。一本小说 成像技术，即双轴共焦(DAC)显微镜，将被开发来为荧光探针成像 目标是MB生物标记物。首先，将使用桌面DAC，以及定向探针，以成像 自发性MB小鼠肿瘤模型的建立。将使用定量比率成像方法来 提高肿瘤与正常图像的对比度，这也将通过优化参数来最大化，例如 未结合探针的成像深度、探针浓度和漂洗去除步骤。一个微型模型 DAC，它结合了一个2毫米直径的梯度折射率“针”透镜，将被开发来引导MB 在小鼠身上进行脱体手术。通过对残留肿瘤质量进行量化，可以证明改进的切除效果。 复发时间，并通过监测总体存活率。这些技术和方法将实现更多 完全和准确地切除大脑中的MB，从而通过允许 外科医生以细胞准确性和分子特异性可视化肿瘤边缘。

This preclinical project combines imaging technology development with biomarker discovery for functional image guidance during resection of meduloblastoma (MB), the most common pediatric brain tumor. A novel imaging technology, the dual-axis confocal (DAC) microscope, will be developed to image fluorescent probes that target MB biomarkers. First, a tabletop DAC will be used, along with targeted probes, to image a spontaneous mouse tumor model of MB. A quantitative ratiometric-imaging method will be employed to improve tumor-to-normal image contrast, which will also be maximized by optimizing parameters such as imaging depth, probe concentration, and the procedure for rinse removal of unbound probe. A miniature DAC, which incorporates a 2-mm diameter gradient index "needle" lens, will be developed to guide MB debulking surgeries in mice. Improved resection will be demonstrated by quantifying residual tumor mass, time-to-relapse, and by monitoring overall survival. These technologies and methods will enable more complete and accurate resection of MB in the brain, and will thereby improve patient outcomes, by allowing surgeons to visualize tumor margins with cellular accuracy and molecular specificity.