Near-infrared light interaction with abnormal-tissue cells probed
An initial $180,000 research agreement between the Air Force Phillips Laboratory and Aerospace Consulting (both Albuquerque, NM) to perfect tissue imaging using low-power near-infrared laser light should produce a prototype by the end of the year. Developed using remote sensing and astronomical adaptive optics, the "diffuse imaging" method is aimed at detecting light interaction with breast and brain cancer cells. Eventually, bacterial and viral infection signatures could be distinguished as well. Portable units featuring diode lasers and fiberoptic detectors and cables may ultimately result.