Stanislav Y Emelianov

Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.; Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.; Institute for Electronics and Nanotechnology, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.; Integrated Cancer Research Center, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.; Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.; School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA.

50 publications 2018 – 2026 ORCID

What does Stanislav Y Emelianov research?

Stanislav Y Emelianov studies advanced methods for imaging and treating diseases like cancer and heart conditions. He develops innovative tools and techniques that allow doctors to monitor the effectiveness of treatments in real-time, such as using ultrasound for tracking how well cancer therapies like adoptive T cell therapy are working. His research also involves improving drug delivery systems, enabling precise and targeted therapies with devices that release medications only when needed, all while monitoring the process with imaging technologies. Through his work, he aims to make treatments safer and more efficient, providing patients with better care.

Key findings

  • Developed sensors for ultrasound-guided photoacoustic imaging that detected T cell activity in tumors, indicating treatment effectiveness before size changes appeared.
  • Improved gene expression in engineered immune cells by 150 times using ultrasound-based thermal activation.
  • Created double-emulsion perfluorocarbon nanodroplets that effectively delivered drugs with minimal leakage during imaging, enhancing targeted drug treatment.
  • Achieved an average reduction of 4.5 mmHg in eye pressure for glaucoma patients using magnetically steered stem cell therapy, compared to a 1.9 mmHg reduction from alternative methods.
  • Established a new imaging technique with a dual-transducer approach that significantly enhanced the quality and precision of tissue stiffness imaging.

Frequently asked questions

Does Dr. Emelianov study cancer treatments?
Yes, Dr. Emelianov conducts research on cancer treatments, focusing on improving adoptive T cell therapy and drug delivery systems to enhance treatment effectiveness.
What advancements has Dr. Emelianov made in imaging techniques?
He has developed several innovative imaging techniques, such as ultrasound-guided photoacoustic imaging and dual-transducer approaches, to provide clearer and more accurate images for diagnosing conditions.
Is Dr. Emelianov's work relevant for patients with heart diseases?
Yes, his research includes methods for assessing heart tissue stiffness and improving diagnostic tools for heart conditions, benefiting patients with cardiovascular diseases.
What are magnetically steered cell therapies?
These are treatments using stem cells that are guided into specific areas in the body, like the eye for glaucoma patients, to improve treatment outcomes, as demonstrated in Dr. Emelianov's research.
How does Dr. Emelianov's research help in drug delivery?
His studies focus on developing tiny carriers for drugs that can release medications precisely at targeted sites while being monitored through imaging, improving overall treatment safety and effectiveness.

Publications in plain English

Assessing myocardial stiffness with transient elastography using catheter-compatible miniature actuator.

2026

Ultrasonics

M A Morais S, Karpiouk AB, VanderLaan DJ, Padala M, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study looked at a new, small tool that can measure how stiff heart tissue is during heart procedures using a technique called transient elastography. The researchers found that this tool works well in both artificial tissue and real pig heart tissue, providing measurements that matched up with traditional methods, showing no significant differences. This is important because understanding heart tissue stiffness can help doctors assess heart conditions like heart failure better. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart issues and doctors involved in cardiac procedures.

PubMed

An integrated ultrasound-guided focused ultrasound system enables spatiotemporal control of thermal gene activation in engineered immune cells.

2026

Theranostics

Lee J, Cadena M, Kim M, Song S, Zamat A +2 more

Plain English
This study developed a new system that uses ultrasound for precise heating to activate specific genes in engineered immune cells, which can help treat diseases like cancer. They found that this method improved gene expression in these cells by about 150 times compared to cells that weren't heated, while keeping the cells mostly alive and healthy. This technology could pave the way for better gene therapies, making treatments safer and more effective. Who this helps: Patients with cancer and other diseases requiring advanced therapies.

PubMed

Protease-Activated Plasmonic Nanosensors for Predictive Ultrasound-Guided Photoacoustic Imaging of Tumor Responses to Adoptive T Cell Therapy.

2026

Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany)

Kim M, Song S, Zamat A, Pelkowski PS, Subramanian S +6 more

Plain English
This study focused on a new type of sensor that helps doctors see how well a cancer treatment called adoptive T cell therapy (ACT) is working inside tumors. The researchers found that their sensors could specifically detect activity from T cells in tumors, producing strong signals that indicated treatment effectiveness, even before any changes in tumor size were visible. This method offers a quick and noninvasive way to monitor patient responses to therapy, which could lead to better treatment decisions. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing adoptive T cell therapy and their doctors by providing timely feedback on treatment effectiveness.

PubMed

MAGNETICALLY STEERED CELL THERAPY FOR REDUCTION OF INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE AS A TREATMENT STRATEGY FOR OPEN-ANGLE GLAUCOMA.

2025

bioRxiv : the preprint server for biology

Bahrani Fard MR, Chan J, Read AT, Li G, Cheng L +8 more

Plain English
Researchers studied a new method for treating high eye pressure in glaucoma, which can cause blindness. They used a technique to guide human stem cells into the eye of mice and found that one type of cell reduced eye pressure by an average of 4.5 mmHg, or 27%, for nine months, while another type of cell reduced it by 1.9 mmHg, or 13%, but with a higher risk of complications. This is important because it shows a potential long-term treatment for glaucoma that could help prevent vision loss. Who this helps: Patients with glaucoma.

PubMed

Ultrasound and Photoacoustic Imaging of Nanoparticle-Engineered T Cells and Post-Treatment Assessment to Guide Adoptive Cell Immunotherapy.

2025

ACS nano

Kubelick KP, Kim J, Kim M, Huang X, Wang C +3 more

Plain English
Researchers studied a new imaging method that combines ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging to track specially marked T cells used in cancer treatments. They found that this method could effectively show where these T cells accumulate in tumors and how the tumor size changes over a week, revealing whether the treatment is working or not. This matters because it offers a safer and more efficient way to monitor patient responses to immunotherapy, which can improve cancer treatment outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing cancer treatment and their doctors by providing better monitoring tools.

PubMed

Magnetically Controlled Reversible Photomagnetic Nanoactuators for Dynamic Contrast Enhancement in Optical Coherence Tomography.

2025

Advanced materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)

Kim M, Morais SMA, Jhunjhunwala A, Subramanian S, Pelkowski PS +1 more

Plain English
This study focused on improving a medical imaging technique called optical coherence tomography (OCT), which helps visualize details in tissues. Researchers developed tiny devices called photomagnetic nanoactuators that can change how they scatter light when a magnetic field is applied, achieving about 90% efficiency in enhancing images. This method can better highlight important signals in images, making it easier to track cells and diagnose conditions without invasive procedures. Who this helps: This benefits patients and healthcare providers by improving diagnostic imaging and monitoring.

PubMed

Magnetically steered cell therapy for reduction of intraocular pressure as a treatment strategy for open-angle glaucoma.

2025

eLife

Bahranifard MR, Chan J, Read AT, Li G, Cheng L +8 more

Plain English
This study looked at a new way to treat high eye pressure in glaucoma patients using magnetically directed cell therapy. Researchers found that a single treatment with 1,500 human fat-derived stem cells reduced eye pressure by an average of 4.5 mmHg, or 27%, over nine months, compared to only a 1.9 mmHg reduction from another type of cell. This is important because high eye pressure is a major risk factor for glaucoma, which can lead to blindness. Who this helps: This helps patients with glaucoma who need better ways to manage their eye pressure.

PubMed

A Dual-Transducer Approach for High-Resolution and High-Precision Shear Wave Elasticity Imaging.

2025

Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)

Liu J, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study explored a new method of imaging tissue stiffness using ultrasound, which is important for diagnosing diseases. The researchers developed a dual-transducer approach, where two ultrasound devices work together—one to create shear waves and the other to track them—resulting in higher image quality and precision. Their tests showed that this method significantly improved imaging performance, making it much better than the traditional single-transducer method. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and patients by providing clearer and more accurate images for diagnosing conditions.

PubMed

Ultrasound-Guided Photoacoustic Monitoring of Vascular Ischemia in Implant-Induced Skin Necrosis.

2025

Ultrasound in medicine & biology

Huang X, Yu AM, Morais SMA, Park JH, Zopf DA +2 more

Plain English
This study looked at how ultrasound-guided photoacoustic imaging can help detect blood flow problems that lead to skin damage from implants. Researchers tested three types of implants in hairless mice and found that blood flow markers dropped by up to 48% in mice with skin issues, about 2-4 weeks before any visible skin damage appeared. This finding is important because it shows that this imaging technique can identify problems early, potentially improving care and outcomes for patients with subcutaneous implants. Who this helps: Patients receiving subcutaneous implants.

PubMed

Nanoengineered cytotoxic T cells for photoacoustic image-guided combinatorial cancer therapy.

2025

Biomedical engineering letters

Lee Y, Castellanos AMS, Kim M, Kulkarni AD, Lee J +6 more

Plain English
This study looked at improving cancer treatment by combining special immune cells called T cells with tiny particles that carry cancer-fighting drugs. The researchers found that when these T cells were coated with drug-loaded nanoparticles, they not only targeted tumors more effectively but also worked better at killing cancer cells. Specifically, using ultrasound imaging, they showed that the treatment increased the delivery of the drugs to tumors, making the treatment stronger. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients by enhancing the effectiveness of their treatments.

PubMed

Double-Emulsion Perfluorocarbon Nanodroplets for Ultrasound and Photoacoustic Image-Guided Drug Delivery and Release.

2025

ACS nano

Chung E, Zhao AX, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study focused on improving a type of tiny drug carrier called double-emulsion perfluorocarbon nanodroplets (dePFCnDs) to deliver water-based medications more effectively using ultrasound imaging. The researchers found that these new nanodroplets could hold more of the drug calcein than previous models, and they showed very little leakage during imaging, which means they can release the drug precisely when triggered by focused ultrasound. This matters because it offers a safer and more reliable way to deliver treatments directly to specific areas in the body while monitoring the process in real-time. Who this helps: Patients needing targeted drug delivery for conditions like cancer.

PubMed

Applications of the Photocatalytic and Photoacoustic Properties of Gold Nanorods in Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound and Photoacoustic Imaging.

2024

ACS nano

Sun IC, Dumani DS, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study looked at a new tool called GLANCE, which uses tiny gold rods to improve ultrasound imaging. GLANCE works by producing gas bubbles when exposed to laser light, significantly increasing the contrast in the images, making it easier to see where tissue abnormalities are located. It has features like a small size and compatibility with the body that could enhance disease diagnosis beyond what current ultrasound methods can achieve. Who this helps: This helps patients who need more accurate diagnoses from ultrasound imaging.

PubMed

Coupling Gold Nanospheres into Nanochain Constructs for High-Contrast, Longitudinal Photoacoustic Imaging.

2024

Nano letters

Kim M, Kubelick KP, Vanderlaan D, Qin D, Lee J +5 more

Plain English
This study focused on creating a new type of gold-based imaging agent called gold sphere chains (GSCs) to improve a technique called photoacoustic imaging, which helps visualize areas inside the body. The researchers found that GSCs produced stronger and more stable signals than traditional gold agents, making them better for repeated imaging sessions. Specifically, GSCs provided consistent photoacoustic signals at safe energy levels for patients, which could significantly enhance cancer imaging. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients, particularly those undergoing cancer imaging.

PubMed

Laser-activated perfluorocarbon nanodroplets for intracerebral delivery and imaging via blood-brain barrier opening and contrast-enhanced imaging.

2024

Journal of nanobiotechnology

Hallam KA, Nikolai RJ, Jhunjhunwala A, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study looked at a new way to deliver drugs to the brain and get clear images of the brain using tiny droplets activated by lasers. Researchers found that these droplets successfully opened the blood-brain barrier in mice, allowing for targeted delivery and clear imaging of the brain. Specifically, they saw that the imaging technique accurately showed areas where the drug was delivered, confirming the effectiveness of their method. Who this helps: This benefits patients who need targeted brain treatments, such as those with brain tumors or neurological diseases.

PubMed

Regulating interparticle proximity in plasmonic nanosphere aggregates to enhance photoacoustic response and photothermal stability.

2024

Advanced functional materials

Kim M, Kubelick KP, Yu AM, VanderLaan D, Jhunjhunwala A +4 more

Plain English
This study focused on improving a type of imaging technique called photoacoustic (PA) imaging by using special tiny particles made from silver. Researchers found that when these silver particles are closely packed together, they produce stronger and more reliable signals for imaging, and they remain stable without getting damaged – showing a high resistance to photodamage. This is important because it means doctors can use this method more effectively for cancer imaging over longer periods without losing quality, allowing for better detection and monitoring of tumors. Who this helps: Patients undergoing cancer imaging and their doctors.

PubMed

A pilot study of cardiac guided wave elastography: Antesting in a rodent model with mechanical testing validation.

2024

Frontiers in acoustics

Liu J, Corporan D, Vanderlaan D, Padala M, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study investigated a new imaging technique called cardiac guided wave elastography, which is designed to measure the stiffness of heart tissues that can change in heart disease. Researchers tested this method on rat heart tissue and found that the measurements from their new technique matched well with traditional mechanical testing, confirming its accuracy. This matters because it shows promise for using ultrasound to help diagnose heart conditions and assess cardiovascular risk in a safe and cost-effective way. Who this helps: Patients with heart disease and their doctors can benefit from this improved diagnostic tool.

PubMed

Characterizing a photoacoustic and fluorescence imaging platform for preclinical murine longitudinal studies.

2023

Journal of biomedical optics

Thompson WR, Brecht HF, Ivanov V, Yu AM, Dumani DS +3 more

Plain English
Researchers developed a new imaging system that combines two technologies, photoacoustic (PA) and fluorescence (FL) imaging, to study small animals like mice more effectively. Their tests showed that this system can capture very detailed images of anatomy and function, with PA's spatial resolution at 50 micrometers and FL sensitivity detecting concentrations down to 100 nanomoles per liter. This advancement is important because it allows scientists to see both structural and molecular details in living animals, which helps improve our understanding of diseases and potential treatments. Who this helps: This benefits researchers and scientists studying animal models for medical research.

PubMed

A Scholte wave approach for ultrasonic surface acoustic wave elastography.

2023

Medical physics

Liu J, Leer J, Aglayomov SR, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study explored a new ultrasound technique to measure the stiffness of tissues just below the surface of the skin. Researchers found that a type of wave called Scholte waves can effectively assess the elasticity of superficial tissues, achieving speeds of about 0.9 m/s and frequencies of around 186 Hz in a test material. This is important because it allows for better imaging of superficial tissues, which could improve diagnostic methods and make it easier to identify issues earlier. Who this helps: This benefits patients by providing quicker and more accurate assessments of superficial tissue conditions.

PubMed

Real-time monitoring of NIR-triggered drug release from phase-changeable nanodroplets by photoacoustic/ultrasound imaging.

2023

Photoacoustics

Cao Y, Dumani DS, Hallam KA, Emelianov SY, Ran H

Plain English
This study looked at new kinds of tiny droplets that can be used to deliver drugs directly to tumors when activated by a laser. Researchers found that using ultrasound and special imaging techniques allowed them to monitor how and when these droplets released their drugs. They discovered the best way to activate the droplets to ensure more effective treatment with less harm to the patient—ultimately helping to improve cancer therapies. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients who need targeted treatments.

PubMed

pH-responsive ratiometric photoacoustic imaging of polyaniline nanoparticle-coated needle for targeted cancer biopsy.

2023

Photoacoustics

Choe A, Qin D, Yu AM, Chung E, Jhunjhunwala A +2 more

Plain English
This study looked at a special needle designed for cancer biopsies that can measure the pH levels of tissues. Researchers created a needle coated with special nanoparticles that change with pH, which allowed them to accurately identify cancerous tissue by detecting lower pH levels; for example, the needle showed clear differences in pH between healthy and cancerous regions. This matters because it can improve the accuracy of cancer biopsies, helping doctors identify cancerous tissues more effectively. Who this helps: Patients undergoing cancer biopsies.

PubMed

Improved magnetic delivery of cells to the trabecular meshwork in mice.

2023

Experimental eye research

Bahrani Fard MR, Chan J, Sanchez Rodriguez G, Yonk M, Kuturu SR +4 more

Plain English
Researchers studied a new way to deliver special stem cells to a part of the eye called the trabecular meshwork, which is important for controlling pressure and is often damaged in glaucoma. They found that using a focused magnetic technique significantly improved the delivery of stem cells: more cells reached the target area, with about 75% of the cells located closer to the trabecular meshwork compared to traditional methods. This is important because better delivery could lead to more effective treatments for glaucoma and reduce the risk of side effects. Who this helps: This helps patients with glaucoma and their doctors by improving potential treatments.

PubMed

Photoacoustic-guided ultrasound thermal imaging without prior knowledge of tissue composition.

2023

Photoacoustics

Lee J, Kubelick KP, Choe A, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study investigated a new way to measure temperature in tissues using ultrasound, which is often complicated by the need to know the specific properties of those tissues. Researchers found that by using tiny particles to help measure temperature, they could create accurate temperature maps without needing to know the tissue type beforehand. This method may improve the accuracy of temperature monitoring in medical settings, which is crucial for effective treatment and patient safety. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing thermal therapies, such as those receiving cancer treatment.

PubMed

Photoacoustic Monitoring of Stem Cell Location and Apoptosis with Caspase-3-Responsive Nanosensors.

2023

ACS nano

Jhunjhunwala A, Kim J, Kubelick KP, Ethier CR, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This research studied a new way to track stem cells in the body using a special tool called nanosensors combined with imaging. The scientists found that these sensors could show a 2.4 times stronger signal when the stem cells were dying, and they tracked the cells effectively for two weeks in mice, achieving a 4.8 times stronger signal under stress conditions. This is important because it allows doctors to monitor stem cell behavior without needing invasive procedures like biopsies. Who this helps: Patients receiving stem cell therapy.

PubMed

Hyper-Branched Gold Nanoconstructs for Photoacoustic Imaging in the Near-Infrared Optical Window.

2023

Nano letters

Kim M, VanderLaan D, Lee J, Choe A, Kubelick KP +2 more

Plain English
This study focused on creating and testing a new type of gold nanomaterial, called hyper-branched gold nanoconstructs (HBGNCs), which are designed to improve images for cancer detection. Researchers found that HBGNCs absorb light very well in the near-infrared range and provide better imaging quality than traditional gold materials, which could help produce clearer images of tumors. This is important because it can lead to more accurate cancer diagnoses and better monitoring of treatment. Who this helps: Patients undergoing cancer imaging.

PubMed

Tunable Interparticle Connectivity in Gold Nanosphere Assemblies for Efficient Photoacoustic Conversion.

2023

Advanced functional materials

Kim M, Kim J, VanderLaan D, Kubelick KP, Jhunjhunwala A +2 more

Plain English
This study looked at how gold nanoparticles can be arranged in ways that improve their effectiveness for a type of medical imaging called photoacoustic imaging. The researchers found that when these gold nanoparticles are connected in a certain way, specifically called "semi-connectivity," they produce photoacoustic signals that are 3.4 times stronger than when there is no connectivity and 2.4 times stronger than when they are fully connected. This is important because these semi-connected nanoparticles also showed better stability under bright light, making them a more reliable option for ongoing medical imaging. Who this helps: This benefits patients undergoing imaging procedures, as well as doctors who need clearer images for better diagnoses.

PubMed

Gold nanoparticles conjugated with DNA aptamer for photoacoustic detection of human matrix metalloproteinase-9.

2022

Photoacoustics

Kim J, Yu AM, Kubelick KP, Emelianov SY

Plain English
Researchers studied how gold nanoparticles attached to a special DNA molecule can detect a key protein, MMP-9, that is linked to cancer spread. They found that these gold nanoparticles clump together when they encounter MMP-9, which increases their visibility during imaging tests. This method was effective in identifying MMP-9 in laboratory solutions, cell cultures, and mice with breast cancer, indicating it could be a powerful tool for cancer diagnosis. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers in diagnosing and monitoring cancer patients.

PubMed

High-Frequency Ultrasound Imaging With Sub-Nyquist Sampling.

2022

IEEE transactions on ultrasonics, ferroelectrics, and frequency control

Kang J, Yoon H, Yoon C, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study focused on developing a new tool for high-frequency ultrasound imaging that makes it easier and less computer-intensive to process images. Researchers created a method that uses fewer data points without sacrificing image quality, achieving similar results in tests—like measuring sizes in micrometers—compared to traditional methods. Specifically, they showed that their new method maintained a similar beam width (around 63.5 micrometers) while using less processing power. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and medical researchers who use high-frequency ultrasound for imaging, such as in cancer detection.

PubMed

Correction:photoacoustic image-guided tumor photothermal therapy and real-time temperature monitoring using a core-shell polypyrrole@CuS nanohybrid.

2022

Nanoscale

Cao Y, Dumani DS, Chen Z, Emelianov SY, Ran H

Plain English
This study looked at a new method for treating tumors using a special type of nanomaterial called a core-shell polypyrrole@CuS nanohybrid. Researchers found that this method not only effectively heats tumors to destroy cancer cells but also allows for real-time temperature monitoring during treatment. This is important because it can improve the safety and effectiveness of the therapy for patients with tumors. Who this helps: Patients undergoing tumor treatment.

PubMed

Noninvasive ultrasound assessment of tissue internal pressure using dual mode elasticity imaging: a phantom study.

2022

Physics in medicine and biology

Liu J, Yoon H, Emelianov SY

Plain English
The study focused on creating a noninvasive way to measure internal pressure in tissues, which is important for diagnosing conditions like tumors and compartment syndrome. Researchers tested a new ultrasound technique using models that mimic human tissues and discovered that both pressure and elasticity can be measured without needing invasive procedures. This method is valuable because it offers a safer option for monitoring internal pressures, which can help in detecting pressure-related health issues more effectively. Who this helps: This benefits patients and doctors in diagnosing pressure-related diseases.

PubMed

Bifunctional Janus Particles as Multivalent Synthetic Nanoparticle Antibodies (SNAbs) for Selective Depletion of Target Cells.

2021

Nano letters

Liu J, Toy R, Vantucci C, Pradhan P, Zhang Z +15 more

Plain English
Researchers studied a new type of synthetic particle, called Synthetic Nanoparticle Antibodies (SNAbs), designed to selectively eliminate certain immune-suppressing cells that can block cancer treatment. In tests with mice, these SNAbs successfully removed these harmful cells, leading to better immune responses against tumors, particularly in a model of triple-negative breast cancer. This is significant because it provides a potentially faster and cheaper way to create effective treatments compared to traditional monoclonal antibodies. Who this helps: This helps patients with cancer, especially those with difficult-to-treat types like triple-negative breast cancer.

PubMed

Clinically translatable quantitative molecular photoacoustic imaging with liposome-encapsulated ICG J-aggregates.

2021

Nature communications

Wood CA, Han S, Kim CS, Wen Y, Sampaio DRT +8 more

Plain English
This study looked at a new imaging technique called photoacoustic imaging, which helps visualize tissues inside the body. Researchers developed a new contrast agent, PAtrace, made from tiny lipid bubbles containing a special dye, which showed better performance than the current dye used. In tests, PAtrace improved image clarity by providing more accurate measurements and better targeting of cancer cells, particularly in ovarian cancer. Who this helps: This benefits cancer patients by improving the accuracy of imaging techniques used for diagnosis and treatment.

PubMed

Design of a Volumetric Imaging Sequence Using a Vantage-256 Ultrasound Research Platform Multiplexed With a 1024-Element Fully Sampled Matrix Array.

2020

IEEE transactions on ultrasonics, ferroelectrics, and frequency control

Yu J, Yoon H, Khalifa YM, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This research focused on improving ultrasound imaging by using advanced equipment to capture detailed three-dimensional images in real time. The team created a new imaging technique that successfully handled large amounts of data while maintaining high image quality, demonstrating the ability to visualize the structure of an eye at a speed of 30 images per second. This matters because it lays the groundwork for better ultrasound technologies that can be used in various medical applications. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and researchers in ophthalmology and ultrasound imaging.

PubMed

Effects of Freezing on Mesenchymal Stem Cells Labeled with Gold Nanoparticles.

2020

Tissue engineering. Part C, Methods

Laffey MK, Kubelick KP, Donnelly EM, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study looked at how freezing affects stem cells that are labeled with gold nanoparticles, which help doctors track these cells during treatment. The researchers found that after storing and thawing the labeled stem cells for up to two months, they remained healthy and able to differentiate into different cell types, showing no significant loss in function or imaging clarity. This is important because it means stem cells can be prepared and stored in advance, making them ready for use when needed in clinical settings without delaying treatment. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients who need quick and effective stem cell therapies.

PubMed

Photomagnetic Prussian blue nanocubes: Synthesis, characterization, and biomedical applications.

2020

Nanomedicine : nanotechnology, biology, and medicine

Dumani DS, Cook JR, Kubelick KP, Luci JJ, Emelianov SY

Plain English
Researchers developed a new type of tiny particle called photomagnetic Prussian blue nanocubes (PBNCs), which have important features for medical use, including strong magnetic and light-absorbing properties. These particles can be used to improve imaging techniques like MRI and photoacoustic imaging, and they can also help in targeting and moving specific cells in the body. This is significant because it could enhance both the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, making medical procedures more effective and efficient. Who this helps: This helps patients and doctors by providing better imaging and treatment options.

PubMed

Prussian blue nanocubes as a multimodal contrast agent for image-guided stem cell therapy of the spinal cord.

2020

Photoacoustics

Kubelick KP, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study looked at using tiny particles called Prussian blue nanocubes to improve the monitoring of stem cell treatments for spinal cord injuries in real-time during and after surgery. Researchers found that these particles allowed them to visualize and track very low levels of stem cells, guiding the injections accurately and monitoring their placement effectively. This is important because better monitoring can lead to more effective stem cell therapies and improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with spinal cord injuries and doctors involved in their treatment.

PubMed

Ultrafast ultrasound imaging of surface acoustic waves induced by laser excitation compared with acoustic radiation force.

2020

Optics letters

Zhao L, Vanderlaan D, Yoon H, Liu J, Li C +1 more

Plain English
This study looked at two ways to create sound waves in tissue: using a laser and using a force from sound. Researchers found that sound waves created by lasers had a different range of frequencies compared to those created by sound forces, which could make them more effective for certain imaging technologies. This matters because it could lead to better ways to see and understand what's happening in the body without needing invasive procedures. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers working on non-invasive imaging techniques.

PubMed

photoacoustic guidance of stem cell injection and delivery for regenerative spinal cord therapies.

2020

Neurophotonics

Kubelick KP, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study investigated a new imaging technique to help doctors accurately inject stem cells into the spinal cord for treating injuries and diseases. Researchers used special particles to label the stem cells and employed ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging, allowing them to visualize the injection in real time. The results showed that this method successfully tracked the stem cells' delivery, laying the groundwork for future tools to monitor and enhance spinal cord therapies. Who this helps: This benefits patients with spinal cord injuries or neurodegenerative diseases by improving the precision of stem cell treatments.

PubMed

A Trimodal Ultrasound, Photoacoustic and Magnetic Resonance Imaging Approach for Longitudinal Post-operative Monitoring of Stem Cells in the Spinal Cord.

2020

Ultrasound in medicine & biology

Kubelick KP, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study looked at a new way to track stem cells in the spinal cord after surgery using three different imaging techniques: ultrasound, photoacoustic, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Researchers labeled the stem cells with special nanoparticles and were able to monitor their behavior in rats for up to 14 days. They found that the imaging methods worked well together, which could help speed up the development of treatments for spinal cord injuries. Who this helps: This benefits patients with spinal cord injuries and the doctors treating them.

PubMed

Design and Demonstration of a Configurable Imaging Platform for Combined Laser, Ultrasound, and Elasticity Imaging.

2019

IEEE transactions on medical imaging

Yoon H, Zhu YI, Yarmoska SK, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study presents a new imaging platform called CLUE, which combines laser, ultrasound, and elasticity imaging to provide detailed information for diagnosing and monitoring diseases like cancer. Researchers successfully tested this platform on a tissue model and a mouse spleen, showing that it can gather important imaging data all at once, offering clearer insights into tissue conditions. This is significant because it enhances the ability to assess complex diseases more effectively, improving diagnosis and treatment strategies. Who this helps: This benefits patients by providing more accurate and comprehensive diagnostic tools.

PubMed

Photothermal transformation of Au-Ag nanocages under pulsed laser irradiation.

2019

Nanoscale

Hood ZD, Kubelick KP, Gilroy KD, Vanderlaan D, Yang X +4 more

Plain English
This study looked at how pulsed lasers change gold-silver nanostructures, specifically Au-Ag nanocages, into solid nanoparticles. When the researchers used the laser at specific energy levels, they found that the nanocages transformed into round particles that retained the same composition of gold and silver. At higher laser energy, the new particles got bigger due to growth processes that were observed; for instance, increasing the laser energy to more than 16 mJ/cm² led to a growth in size. Who this helps: Patients and researchers in fields like medicine and catalysis.

PubMed

Leveraging the Imaging Transmit Pulse to Manipulate Phase-Change Nanodroplets for Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound.

2019

IEEE transactions on ultrasonics, ferroelectrics, and frequency control

Zhu YI, Yoon H, Zhao AX, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study focused on a new type of tiny particles, called phase-change perfluorohexane nanodroplets (PFHnDs), which can enhance ultrasound images. The researchers found that by changing the way ultrasound waves are used, they could boost the visibility of these particles by about 78% and make them last longer in images, up to four times longer, which is crucial for detecting small amounts of these particles in medical imaging. This improvement matters because it could lead to better, more detailed images in areas like cancer detection or monitoring other diseases. Who this helps: Patients who need accurate imaging for medical diagnoses.

PubMed

Photoacoustic imaging of gold nanorods in the brain delivered via microbubble-assisted focused ultrasound: a tool formolecular neuroimaging.

2019

Laser physics letters

Hartman RK, Hallam KA, Donnelly EM, Emelianov SY

Plain English
Researchers studied a method to get imaging agents into the brain by temporarily opening the blood-brain barrier using focused ultrasound and microbubbles. They found that silica-coated gold nanorods could be delivered this way, allowing them to be visualized with a technique called photoacoustic imaging. This is important because it could improve how we monitor and treat brain diseases by enabling better imaging over time. Who this helps: This helps patients with neurological diseases by providing better diagnostic tools for their treatment.

PubMed

Lipid Shell Composition Plays a Critical Role in the Stable Size Reduction of Perfluorocarbon Nanodroplets.

2019

Ultrasound in medicine & biology

Yarmoska SK, Yoon H, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study focused on improving tiny contrast agents called perfluorocarbon nanodroplets (PFCnDs), which are used for advanced imaging techniques like ultrasound. The researchers found that increasing the amount of a specific type of lipid, known as PEGylated lipid, made the nanodroplets smaller and more uniform in size, leading to better imaging results. This matters because smaller and more consistent nanodroplets improve the quality of images for diagnosing conditions like breast cancer. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers working in medical imaging and cancer diagnosis.

PubMed

Ultrasound-guided immunofunctional photoacoustic imaging for diagnosis of lymph node metastases.

2019

Nanoscale

Dumani DS, Sun IC, Emelianov SY

Plain English
Researchers developed a new method using ultrasound and special gold nanoparticles to identify cancer spread in lymph nodes, which is critical for treatment planning. In tests with breast cancer models, they found that the distribution of these nanoparticles in metastatic lymph nodes was significantly different – over two times lower – compared to non-cancerous nodes. This technique can help doctors accurately detect small cancer spreads, leading to better diagnoses and potentially reducing the need for unnecessary biopsies. Who this helps: This helps doctors and cancer patients by improving diagnosis and treatment options.

PubMed

Toward optimization of blood brain barrier opening induced by laser-activated perfluorocarbon nanodroplets.

2019

Biomedical optics express

Hallam KA, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study focused on a new method to safely open the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which often blocks treatments for brain disorders. Researchers used tiny droplets that vaporize with laser energy, finding that using more laser energy and more laser pulses led to greater BBB opening—up to a point. For example, increasing the laser intensity resulted in a better opening of the barrier, helping deliver medication to the brain more effectively. This research is important because it helps improve how doctors can treat neurological conditions by allowing better access for therapeutic agents. Who this helps: This benefits patients with neurological disorders looking for better treatment options.

PubMed

Color-coded perfluorocarbon nanodroplets for multiplexed ultrasound and Photoacoustic imaging.

2019

Nano research

Santiesteban DY, Hallam KA, Yarmoska SK, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study explores a new type of tiny bubbles called color-coded perfluorocarbon nanodroplets, which can be activated by lasers to improve imaging techniques like ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging. The researchers found that these special droplets can effectively highlight different biological targets for up to 72 hours and allow doctors to track specific behaviors of these targets in the body. This is important because it could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatments for various health conditions. Who this helps: Patients undergoing imaging tests.

PubMed

Photoacoustic Image-Guided Delivery of Plasmonic-Nanoparticle-Labeled Mesenchymal Stem Cells to the Spinal Cord.

2018

Nano letters

Donnelly EM, Kubelick KP, Dumani DS, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study focused on improving the delivery of stem cells to the spinal cord using a new imaging technique that combines ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging. Researchers successfully used gold nanoparticles to label stem cells, allowing them to guide the injection process and monitor the delivery in real-time, even detecting as few as 1,000 cells. This advancement is important because it makes stem cell treatments safer and more accurate, potentially leading to better outcomes for patients with spinal cord injuries or neurodegenerative diseases. Who this helps: Patients with spinal cord injuries and neurodegenerative diseases.

PubMed

Impact of depth-dependent optical attenuation on wavelength selection for spectroscopic photoacoustic imaging.

2018

Photoacoustics

Yoon H, Luke GP, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study looked at how light behaves differently at various depths in tissue when using a specific imaging technique called spectroscopic photoacoustic imaging. Researchers developed a new method to pick the best light wavelengths, which significantly improved the accuracy of measuring blood components like hemoglobin, especially in deeper tissues. Their method showed better results, reducing errors in concentration estimates by utilizing simulations that took into account the depth and concentration of blood for different conditions. Who this helps: This benefits medical professionals and researchers who rely on accurate imaging to diagnose and treat patients.

PubMed

Integrated optical coherence tomography and multielement ultrasound transducer probe for shear wave elasticity imaging of moving tissues.

2018

Journal of biomedical optics

Karpiouk AB, VanderLaan DJ, Larin KV, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study looked at a new tool that combines ultrasound and optical technology to measure the stiffness of soft tissues in moving parts of the body, like the heart. The researchers found that their method accurately measured the stiffness of tissues, with results consistent with previous studies. This advancement matters because it could improve how doctors assess heart health and other soft tissues in a real-life setting, especially during cardiac and respiratory cycles. Who this helps: This helps doctors and patients needing assessments of heart and tissue health.

PubMed

Laser-activated perfluorocarbon nanodroplets: a new tool for blood brain barrier opening.

2018

Biomedical optics express

Hallam KA, Donnelly EM, Karpiouk AB, Hartman RK, Emelianov SY

Plain English
This study looked at a new method for opening the blood-brain barrier (BBB) using tiny particles called perfluorocarbon nanodroplets (PFCnDs) activated by lasers. Researchers found that by using pulsed lasers, they could repeatedly turn these droplets into gas bubbles, which allowed them to disrupt the barrier and successfully deliver a dye into brain tissue. This technique offers a non-invasive and cost-effective way to potentially deliver treatments to the brain, which is crucial for addressing neurological diseases. Who this helps: This helps patients with neurological diseases who need effective treatments and monitoring.

PubMed

Publication data sourced from PubMed . Plain-English summaries generated by AI. Not medical advice.