UA Gets Imaging System for Breast Cancer Research

A state-of-the-art terahertz imaging system recently acquired by the University of Arkansas will help researchers investigate an alternative method of detecting and treating breast cancer.

The system was purchased with a $400,000 grant from the National Science Foundation and $171,428 in matching funds from the university, a news release stated.

“Among many important applications, this system will allow us to continue our work on developing a non-hazardous and non-invasive imaging system for breast cancer,” Magda El-Shenawee, professor of electrical engineering, said in the release.

She added the system also includes therapeutic applications.

“Because of the unique properties of terahertz light, the system will help reduce cancer recurrence by contributing to the thermal ablation of tumors,” she said.

Pulsed terahertz spectroscopy and imaging produce high-quality images, even through concealing barriers. El-Shenawee collaborates on the detection research with two professors from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and a postdoctoral fellow in electrical engineering at the UA.