Grant: Operating Grant

A new ultrasound transducer array technology is proposed that will enable the use of multiple frequencies emanating from a single device. In essence this will permit simultaneous tissue manipulation and imaging from the same device. Multi-frequency transducer arrays will enable a variety of new imaging and therapeutic options including improved micro-vessel imaging, tumour mechanical properties (elasticity)imaging, treatment acceleration, molecular imaging and improved contrast imaging. Finally methods for three dimensional analysis of ultrasound microbubble contrast using multi-frequency approaches will be developed. The new approaches will be based on models developed in our laboratories and implemented on state of the art commercial instrumentation. Multifrequency ultrasound will be evaluated in mouse models of renal cell carcinoma and hepatocellular carcinoma to develop novel imaging biomarkers associated with key aspects of tumour response to therapy. In particular quantitative predictors of tumour resistance (failure of therapy) will be sought. By more fully characterizing the actions of targeted drugs alone and in combination in high quality animal models, it is hypothesized that more informed choices can be made before proceeding to expensive phase II and III clinical trials of new targeted therapies.