Robotic Tendrils for High-Density Laser Light Delivery in Lung Cancer Therapy

Lung cancer is the most deadly form of cancer worldwide, and there is an urgent need for new, less invasive treatment options. This project aims to develop a novel approach that combines nanoparticle-mediated laser therapy and soft robotics to destroy lung tumours.

The key innovation is using plasmonic photothermal therapy (PPTT), which leverages gold nanoparticles that can selectively accumulate in tumor tissue. When these nanoparticles are illuminated with a laser, they generate heat that can destroy the cancer cells while leaving healthy tissue unharmed.

However, a major challenge with PPTT for lung cancer is delivering enough laser light deep into the complex, branching structure of the lungs to reach the tumor site. The laser light can only penetrate a few centimetres into tissue.

To overcome this, the researchers will develop a robotic system made up of multiple soft, flexible “tendril” catheters. These tendrils can be precisely guided through the airways and each one will have laser fibres embedded inside. This allows them to simultaneously deliver laser light to multiple sites around the tumor.

By strategically retracting and re-illuminating the tendrils, the researchers can ensure the tumor receives a high enough dose of laser energy to destroy it effectively. This combination of nanoparticle-targeted laser therapy and soft robotic delivery represents an advance over current lung cancer treatments.

Compared to surgery or radiation, this approach should be much less invasive and have fewer side effects. And unlike standard PPTT, the robotic delivery system can overcome the challenge of reaching deep into the lungs.

If successful, this project could open up new treatment options not just for lung cancer, but for other hard-to-reach cancers like those in the pancreas or brain. The robotic light delivery system could also enhance other optical imaging techniques used in medicine, such as photoacoustic imaging.

The project brings together experts in medical robotics, laser therapy, and cancer biology. They will tackle challenges in areas like soft robot design, optical system integration, and in-vitro and animal testing. The outcome could be a transformative new approach to treating one of the world’s deadliest cancers.