NYU Abu Dhabi researchers develop tool to enhance cancer cell detection in cryosurgery

Scientists at New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) have developed a groundbreaking tool that enhances cancer cell detection during cryosurgery, a technique that uses extreme cold to destroy tumors, the Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported.

The innovation, led by the Trabolsi Research Group at NYUAD, involves a nanoscale Covalent Organic Framework (nTG-DFP-COF) that lights up cancerous tissue under freezing conditions. This fluorescence-based material allows surgeons to better distinguish between malignant and healthy cells, improving the accuracy of tumor removal.

The research, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, could significantly reduce the need for repeat surgeries and accelerate patient recovery.

“This breakthrough bridges the gap between imaging and therapy, providing surgeons with a real-time tool to visualize and remove cancer with unprecedented precision,” said Ali Trabolsi, professor of chemistry and principal investigator of the Trabolsi Research Group at NYU Abu Dhabi.

“By integrating fluorescence imaging with cryosurgery, we are pushing the boundaries of cancer treatment and offering new hope for patients with difficult-to-treat tumors.”

Cryosurgery is widely used for treating various cancers, including prostate, liver and skin cancer. However, the challenge has been ensuring complete tumor removal while preserving healthy tissue. The new material, which intensifies its fluorescence under freezing conditions, addresses this issue by providing surgeons with a clearer visual guide during operations.

“We believe this is a transformative tool that could revolutionize cancer surgery,” said Farah Benyettou, Ph.D., a research scientist in the Trabolsi Research Group at NYU Abu Dhabi. “By making tumor removal more precise, this technology has the potential to reduce additional surgeries and accelerate patient recovery.”

The research aligns with global efforts to advance precision medicine and improve cancer treatment outcomes. The ability to combine diagnosis and therapy into a single platform represents a significant step forward in oncology.

This innovation could be particularly beneficial for treating aggressive and hard-to-target cancers, where surgical precision is critical. With further research and clinical testing, the technology could become a vital tool in modern cancer treatment.