Implantable integrated optical device for in-vivo phototherapy

Abstract

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is known for its benefits in cancer treatment;however, its success is contingent on efficiently delivering light to activate a photosensitizer. Recent technological advancements have facilitated the remote illumination of tumors, yet these methods face significant challenges, such as insufficient tissue penetration and inadequate activation of the photosensitizer. In this paper, we introduce a wireless, battery-free, low-profile implantable patch designed for low-power telemetry with smartphones to overcome these constraints. The smartphone transmits the required power to activate an NFC chip and an integrated LED, which serve as an optimized light source. The device features a compact and flexible structure and can be implanted in the body, where it receives power externally. In vitro experiments indicate that the proposed device is capable of wireless activation from a distance of 1 cm between the implanted patch and the smartphone, providing a stable power output of 140 mu W to the nearby tissue. The device's performance was validated through a series of in vivo experiments in terms of power harvesting and LED light delivery to the organs.