Multifaceted Potential of Photoacoustic Imaging for Preclinical Cancer Research

Cancer, due to its intricate biology and heterogeneity, remains an insurmountable challenge at various molecular, cellular, and tissue levels. Substantial efforts are being dedicated to unraveling the complexities of the macro- and microenvironments of tumors that will eventually aid in developing innovative and precise treatment strategies for improving patient survival rates. In the quest to decipher tumors’ biological, physical, and molecular attributes and their responses to therapy, animal cancer models have emerged as invaluable preclinical platforms. Noninvasive imaging of these preclinical cancer models enables researchers to visualize, quantify, and comprehend the disease processes, evaluate treatment effectiveness, and refine experimental designs. Photoacoustic (PA) imaging, a modality that stands at the intersection of optics and acoustics, has garnered significant attention in the realm of preclinical cancer research. Among the diverse array of medical imaging modalities available, PA imaging offers the unique feature of providing three-dimensional, high-resolution, functional, and molecular information with or without the use of exogenous contrast agents. In this chapter, we present the multifaceted potential of PA imaging for preclinical cancer research and delve into the advantages and limitations of this modality in providing insights into the tumor microenvironment and therapy response. By shedding light on the evolving landscape of PA imaging, we aim to provide preclinical researchers with a comprehensive summary of the role it can play in the relentless pursuit of more effective cancer diagnosis and treatment strategies.