SOMETHING TO LOOK FORWARD TO: Startups and researchers around the world are ramping up efforts to develop novel therapeutic approaches to cancer treatment. A China-born researcher is exploring the use of ultrasound to target cancerous cells, potentially turning traditionally invasive procedures into safer, less disruptive forms of care.
HistoSonics, a company founded by biomedical engineer Zhen Xu in 2009, is developing a technique called histotripsy to target different types of cancer. Xu has been refining the approach for years in an effort to treat tumor cells without the need for incisions or other potentially invasive procedures.
According to HistoSonics's website, histotripsy is based on focused ultrasound energy. By using high-amplitude, very short ultrasound pulses, the system generates a "bubble cloud" that mechanically disrupts liver tumors at the sub-cellular level. Cancerous cells are liquefied, while surrounding healthy tissue is intended to remain intact.
Earlier this year, Time magazine listed HistoSonics as one of the 10 most influential health and life science ventures in the world. Following a recent funding round and stake acquisition, the company was valued at $2.25 billion. Xu's work on histotripsy was also recognized with the Sony Women in Technology Award, though development of the technology appears to be still in its early stages.
