UC Irvine Innovates Melanoma Detection with Infrared Laser Technology

A groundbreaking device developed by researchers at the University of California, Irvine (UC Irvine) aims to revolutionize melanoma detection. Under the leadership of Mihaela Balu, an associate professor of dermatology and biomedical engineering, the team has created a low-power infrared laser device designed to scan beneath the skin’s surface at a cellular level. This innovative approach seeks to detect early signs of melanoma without the need for a biopsy, offering a less invasive option for patients.

Balu’s work has garnered significant funding, including multiple grants from the National Institutes of Health and support from the Department of Defense. The latter is particularly relevant as many soldiers are exposed to intense sunlight, increasing their risk for skin cancers. “This federal support has been crucial,” Balu emphasizes. “It enables us to attract top talent, which is essential for advancing our research.”

The competition for skilled researchers in this field is intense, with private industry often providing more lucrative compensation packages. Balu states, “I’m very fortunate to work with an exceptional team. Retaining our core group of talented individuals is vital for our long-term success.” Her team consists of a diverse group, including physicists, a biologist, a chemist, and a biomedical engineer, all of whom contribute to the research environment where clinical practice and research intersect.

Advancing Technology in Clinical Settings

The device, referred to as the fast large-area multiphoton exoscope (FLAME), is designed to be utilized in clinical research settings. During the scanning process, a small metal ring is affixed to a patient’s skin to ensure stability. The laser excites molecules in the skin, allowing the FLAME to produce detailed images of cells and fibers beneath the surface.

Balu notes, “Currently, the scan takes about 10 to 15 minutes, but we are working to reduce that to just 5 minutes.” This improvement would significantly enhance patient experience by minimizing time spent in the clinic. Notably, Balu and her team operate the device themselves, gaining firsthand knowledge of its performance and areas for enhancement.

The primary goal of this technology is to diagnose skin conditions without invasive procedures while also monitoring the effectiveness of various therapies, particularly immunotherapies for metastatic melanoma. “We are tracking responses at a cellular level to determine when treatments are effective,” Balu explains. This capability allows for tailored therapies, reducing the number of doctor visits and facilitating early detection.

Future Developments at UC Irvine

As part of its ongoing evolution, Balu’s team is transitioning the device into a new space at the recently completed UCI Health — Irvine campus. Balu reflects on her journey, stating, “When I first started bringing complex technology like this into the clinic, we were squeezed into a storage room. Now, we will have two dedicated research rooms in the new building. That’s success for me.”

The advancements resulting from federally funded research play a vital role in enhancing UC Irvine’s reputation. The institution has been consistently ranked among the top 10 public universities in the United States for over a decade. Balu expresses her gratitude for her position, stating, “I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to build my work and my career here. I love the multidisciplinary culture and collaborative environment.”

Through the innovative work of researchers like Mihaela Balu and her team, the future of melanoma detection appears to be on the cusp of significant improvement, promising better patient outcomes and advancing the field of dermatology.