Researchers Use Implantable Micro-Device to Monitor Oxygen in Glioma Treatment Outcomes

A new technique known as electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) allows the direct monitoring of oxygen levels in orthotopic human glioma xenograft, which will positively impact treatment outcomes of the condition, if applied with current treatments. Researchers from Dartmouth’s Norris Cotton Cancer Center published a paper in the journal International Journal of Cancer on the technique entitled, “Monitoring oxygen levels in orthotopic human glioma xenograft following carbogen inhalation and chemotherapy by implantable resonator-based oximetry.” According to the main author, “For the first time, we were able to directly monitor oxygen levels in human tumors growing in a mouse brain using EPR oximetry with implantable resonators. This provides exciting opportunities to evaluate and optimize various strategies being developed to improve oxygen levels in the glioma.” Hypoxia has long been associated with glioma developing a resistance to radiotherapy, which impedes treatment success. Using implanted resonators, technicians can observe overall oxygen levels within the glioma in order to route treatment direction to avoid resistance development. To learn more about this study, click here.