Towards non-invasive cancer diagnostics and treatment based on electromagnetic fields, optomechanics and microtubules

TL;DR

This paper explores the potential of electromagnetic fields and optomechanical techniques to develop non-invasive cancer diagnostics and therapies by targeting microtubules' nanomechanical properties.

Contribution

It proposes investigating electromagnetic coupling with microtubules' vibrations to enable non-invasive diagnostic and therapeutic applications in cancer treatment.

Findings

Microtubules' nanomechanical properties can be monitored using optomechanical methods.

Electromagnetic fields may influence microtubules, offering therapeutic potential.

Non-invasive techniques could reduce side effects of traditional cancer treatments.

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss biological effects of electromagnetic (EM) fields in the context of cancer biology. In particular, we review the nanomechanical properties of microtubules (MTs), the latter being one of the most successful targets for cancer therapy. We propose an investigation on the coupling of electromagnetic radiation to mechanical vibrations of MTs as an important basis for biological and medical applications. In our opinion optomechanical methods can accurately monitor and control the mechanical properties of isolated MTs in a liquid environment. Consequently, studying nanomechanical properties of MTs may give useful information for future applications to diagnostic and therapeutic technologies involving non-invasive externally applied physical fields. For example, electromagnetic fields or high intensity ultrasound can be used therapeutically avoiding harmful side effects of chemotherapeutic agents or classical radiation therapy.