Optical imaging in oncology

Optical imaging is useful during preclinical drug development for monitoring biomarkers and molecular events in living tissue. In animal models, the technology has been used to monitor tumor growth and metastasis, determine biological effects of novel drugs, monitor tumor enzyme activity, and examine host-tumor interactions. Clinical application of optical imaging remains in the developmental stages. Fluorescence signals have a limited dept of penetration through tissue. Therefore, completely noninvasive application of optical imaging in humans is currently not possible. However, laparoscopy and endoscopy provide opportunities to apply optical imaging in patients