New Network Optical Technologies in Photodynamics
The strategic partnership sensors located in BioPark Regensburg has started up a new network in the field of photodynamics. The central mechanism is the absorption of light in dye molecules and the processes thereafter. The absorbed light is either transformed in the heat or given off as fluorescent light. This technique can be used in various ways including in laser medicine for targeted destruction of tissue (photothermics). The fluorescence can be used for tumour detection (photodiagnostics) and as an indicator of the presence of gases such as oxygen (photosensory technology). By means of the reactive oxygen species produced, tumour cells or microorganisms are destroyed (phototherapy).
Up to now photodynamic processes have mainly been used in biology and medicine. In the course of increasing resistant bacteria, as for example MRSA staphylococcus strains feared in clinics, this technique is finding great respect. The network links research institutes, companies, customers and service providers in the field of optical technologies and photodynamics (OPTD) and is being promoted by the Ministry of Finance via the ZIM Program. Projects are already being initiated, for example the inactivation of multi-resistant bacteria in the clinical and home environment, fluorescence diagnostics of tumours and the precise and efficient destruction of blood vessels in the treatment of structural vessel malformations (e.g. port wine stain) and blood vessel changes (e.g. spider varices).
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