In situ detection of human glioma based on tissue optical properties using diffuse reflectance spectroscopy

Fabrication and Characterization of Brain Tissue Phantoms Using Agarose Gels for Ultraviolet Vision Systems

Recreating cerebral tissue using a tissue-mimicking phantom is valuable because it provides a tool for studying physiological and biological processes related to tissues without the necessity of performing the study directly in the tissue or even in a patient. The reproduction of the optical properties allows investigation in areas such as imaging, optics, and ultrasound, among others. This paper presents a methodology for manufacturing agarose-based phantoms that mimic the optical characteristics of brain tissue using scattering and absorbing agents and proposes combinations of these agents to recreate the healthy brain tissue optical coefficients within the wavelength range of 350 to 500 nm. The results of the characterization of the manufactured phantoms propose ideal combinations of the used materials for their use in controlled environment experiments in the UV range, following a cost-effective methodology.

Advances in Diagnostic Tools and Therapeutic Approaches for Gliomas: A Comprehensive Review

Gliomas, a prevalent category of primary malignant brain tumors, pose formidable clinical challenges due to their invasive nature and limited treatment options. The current therapeutic landscape for gliomas is constrained by a "one-size-fits-all" paradigm, significantly restricting treatment efficacy. Despite the implementation of multimodal therapeutic strategies, survival rates remain disheartening. The conventional treatment approach, involving surgical resection, radiation, and chemotherapy, grapples with substantial limitations, particularly in addressing the invasive nature of gliomas. Conventional diagnostic tools, including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET), play pivotal roles in outlining tumor characteristics. However, they face limitations, such as poor biological specificity and challenges in distinguishing active tumor regions. The ongoing development of diagnostic tools and therapeutic approaches represents a multifaceted and promising frontier in the battle against this challenging brain tumor. The aim of this comprehensive review is to address recent advances in diagnostic tools and therapeutic approaches for gliomas. These innovations aim to minimize invasiveness while enabling the precise, multimodal targeting of localized gliomas. Researchers are actively developing new diagnostic tools, such as colorimetric techniques, electrochemical biosensors, optical coherence tomography, reflectometric interference spectroscopy, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, and optical biosensors. These tools aim to regulate tumor progression and develop precise treatment methods for gliomas. Recent technological advancements, coupled with bioelectronic sensors, open avenues for new therapeutic modalities, minimizing invasiveness and enabling multimodal targeting with unprecedented precision. The next generation of multimodal therapeutic strategies holds potential for precision medicine, aiding the early detection and effective management of solid brain tumors. These innovations offer promise in adopting precision medicine methodologies, enabling early disease detection, and improving solid brain tumor management. This review comprehensively recognizes the critical role of pioneering therapeutic interventions, holding significant potential to revolutionize brain tumor therapeutics.