UH researchers advance 3D medical imaging technology

Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a new technology that could transform medical imaging. Led by Mini Das, Moores professor at UH’s College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and Cullen College of Engineering, the team has created a 3D imaging solution using photon counting detectors. This innovation allows for more precise visualization by capturing X-rays at multiple energy levels simultaneously.

In an article featured on the cover of the Journal of Medical Imaging, Das outlines how this technology can distinguish between different tissues and contrast agents, potentially improving cancer detection. "There are so many other potential applications for this technology including in materials imaging, baggage scanning for security, imaging for geophysics, and micro- and nano-electronics imaging – it’s very promising," said Das.

Traditional X-rays collect incoming photons as a whole, similar to white light containing all colors without separation. This limits their ability to identify specific materials. The photon counting detectors developed by Das's team separate X-ray photons by energy levels, akin to how a prism splits light into colors. This capability could enhance material identification in various settings.

“This could improve cancer detection,” Das explained. By using two different contrast agents targeting tumors and inflammation respectively, it would be possible to see where each accumulates in the body. Currently, while bright areas can be seen in images, identifying them is challenging. The new technology offers clearer quantitative analysis.

Challenges remain with distinguishing more than two or three materials simultaneously due to similar X-ray properties and detector errors during photon separation. To address this, Das has developed a method that compensates for these distortions through calibration with known materials.

"We have developed a method that compensates for these detector distortions by calibrating the detector using known materials," said Das. "Once corrected, we can use the data along with the proposed novel algorithm for accurate material decomposition."

Before widespread adoption is possible, further development is needed. "We’re still in the research and development phase," noted Das. Her team collaborates with industry partners in Europe to develop larger detectors and optimize performance.

Das's previous work addressed enhancing soft material contrast through exploration of X-ray wave nature—a study featured last year in Optica journal. Her research receives funding from agencies like NSF, CDMRP, NIH; recent support from NIBIB focuses on developing low-dose Micro-CT utilizing novel contrast mechanisms to reduce radiation dose and imaging time.

Mini Das works alongside her research team: Hunwoo Lee, Carlos Luna, Jingcheng Yuan; employing phase contrast and color X-ray imaging systems integral to their studies.

___