High resolution optoacoustic detection of nanoparticles on living cells

In photoacoustic imaging acoustical signals are generated by absorption of short light pulses according to the absorption coefficient of the examined biological sample. Therefore this imaging modality combines advantageous features of optics and acoustics. To increase the intrinsic contrast in tissue, particular nanoparticles are of great interest because of their considerable capacity to absorb light at visible and near-infrared wavelengths. At a preliminary stage of in vivo measurements, the biocompatibility and suitability of the nanoparticles is tested in vitro. A technology platform for optoacoustic imaging down to diffraction limited resolution for in vitro investigation of nanoparticle-exposed cells was developed. Different nanoparticle types were investigated regarding their suitability as optoacoustic contrast agent.