Revolutionising Research: Cutting-Edge Photoacoustic Imaging

Our colleagues at Czech Centre for Phenogenomics (CCP), Prague, have recently expanded their technical equipment portfolio with the addition of the photoacoustic ultrasound system VisualSonics Vevo F2 LAZR-X.

Photoacoustics uses laser light to generate ultrasound waves from tissues, enabling visualisation beyond the capabilities of traditional ultrasound. This advanced device offers resolution up to 50 µm at frequencies up to 71 MHz, providing highly detailed imaging of tissues and organs down to the molecular level.

Thanks to its photoacoustic capabilities, the device is multimodal and ideal for cross-functional research. It allows imaging in various modes, such as B-mode, 3D, 4D and nonlinear contrast. It also enables the measurement of Oxy-Hemo levels, revealing the relative concentrations of oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin which provides critical insights into tissue oxygenation, vascular health and metabolic activity.

The system can detect not only microbubbles but also a variety of photoacoustic contrast agents, such as NIR dyes, nanoparticles (40–150 nm) and melanin. With the Whole-Body Imaging extension, the concentration of these agents can be detected within various organs.

For neuroimaging, the system is equipped with a stereotactic frame, enabling the measurement of cerebral oxygenation, vascularisation, and tumor detection. We also have capabilities for image-guided injections and infusions, significantly enhancing both the precision and efficiency of our research. The device provides one of the highest resolutions available on the market, making it an invaluable tool for precise diagnostic and research applications.

Main areas of use:

• Cardiovascular research
• Oncology
• Neurobiology
• Embryology
• Ophthalmology
• Molecular imaging

More information HERE