Vanderbilt researchers are working on a novel approach to improve the early detection of ovarian cancer, a disease notorious for its late-stage diagnosis and poor outcomes. The new strategy involves a simple preparation of echogenic microbubbles (MBs) that have the potential to transform ovarian screening practices similar to mammograms for breast cancer.
MBs, tiny, gas-filled spheres, are ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs) that strongly reflect ultrasound waves and enhance the visibility of lesions, tumors and blood flow. These bubbles can be engineered—or labeled—to improve ovarian cancer detection during ultrasound screening.
The “label” refers to an antibody or protein that is attached to the microbubble’s outer shell, allowing it to bind to specific biomarkers. In a pilot study, the researchers are developing a method for “easy modification” of clinically used MBs for ovarian cancer detection.
“The significant clinical potential of labeled echogenic microbubbles (MBs) has not been realized, primarily due to the lack of convenient fabrication methods that are compatible with human use,” said Professor of Biomedical Engineering Todd Giorgio, who leads the multidisciplinary research team. “The innovation in this application is a fabrication approach that will enable non-chemists to attach any antibody fragment to the surface of MBs approved for human use.”
Giorgio said this idea was inspired by Art Fleischer, MD, Cornelius Vanderbilt Professor of Radiology and Radiological Sciences and the medical director of ultrasound, who identified the need for this type of enhanced cancer detection. Fleischer is a fellow of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, and a member and former president of the Society for the Advancement of Women’s Imaging.
Short-term goals include demonstration of the fabrication method, as well as testing its performance in mouse models of ovarian cancer. The research team, which includes Vanderbilt experts in radiological sciences, pharmacology, cancer biology, obstetrics and gynecology, biomedical engineering, chemical and biomolecular engineering, and an ovarian cancer survivor advocate, aims to generate sufficient preclinical evidence to attract further investment and support for this innovative diagnostic approach.
“This project represents an exciting step forward in our ability to detect ovarian cancer at its earliest stages. By simplifying the preparation of clinically-used MBs with targeted antibody fragments, we can significantly enhance our detection capacity and treatment monitoring,” said Giorgio, a member of the Vanderbilt Ovarian Cancer Alliance (VOCAL), a working group of scientists involved in a wide range of innovative investigations.
Long-term, the researchers aspire to create a comprehensive product for antibody fragment labeling of MBs that could cater to both clinical and research needs, potentially establishing a new business venture in the process.
“We envision a future where women can undergo annual screenings for ovarian cancer akin to their breast and skin health checks—a critical advancement for early detection and improved survival rates,” Giorgio said.
Contact brenda.ellis@vanderbilt.edu