Unshielded quantitative imaging of magnetic nanoparticles

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) promise new possibilities for medical therapy and diagnostics. There is great potential in cancer therapy with magnetic nanoparticles. In so-called magnetic hyperthermia, biocompatible MNPs are transported specifically to the tumor. The MNPs are then heated by applying magnetic fields, thereby killing cancer cells and activating the immune system. In combination with low-dose chemotherapy, very promising results have been achieved in scientific animal experiments. MNP imaging is essential for both therapy planning and monitoring, in order to ensure patient safety and therapy efficacy. However, clinically available imaging methods are currently not suitable for this. Magnetorelaxometry imaging (MRXI) is a promising experimental method, in which the MNPs are detected using highly sensitive magnetometers. The feasibility of this imaging method has already been demonstrated in well defined, magnetically shielded environments. The aim of this research project is to investigate basic principles for applying the imaging method to humans in an unshielded clinical environment. Major challenges are the characterization and elimination of external interferences in order to measure the tiny magnetic field signals. For reaching this goal, different algorithms will be investigated during this project and novel quantum sensors (so- called optically pumped magnetometers (OPM)) will be developed and characterized. The achievable imaging resolution in clinical environments will be investigated and the uncertainties will be quantified. At the end of the project, an experimental phantom setup will demonstrate imaging and hyperthermia in the pancreas in a clinical environment.