Research Projects

Anisotropic gold nanostructures like nanorod and nanoshell offer significant opportunities for photothermal ablation of malignant tissues. However, nano semi shells, which break the symmetry of nanoshells, have unique plasmonic properties in the near infra-red region. Semi shells can be fabricated using solid state approaches and few laborious colloidal methods. A group has successfully standardized a rapid colloidal method for semi shell synthesis using safe metal organic frameworks as a sacrificial template. Semi shells are efficient photothermal agents and could enhance target specific contrast in optical imaging techniques like photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT). A proposed project aims to establish plasmonic semi shells as a stand-alone nanotransducer for simultaneous photothermal ablation and non-invasive monitoring of tumor destruction and reformation. The study will develop cyclic RGD conjugated plasmonic nanostructures targeting integrins in tumor neovasculature. The process of neovascularization, nanostructure sequestration, and tumor response to photothermal effect will be monitored using an in-house designed PACT set up. This research will help develop clinically viable photo-theranostic agents for simultaneous treatment and assessment of solid tumors.