'Game-changing' anti-cancer technique makes science news headlines

New lab equipment capable of probing deeper into tissue to look for cancer cells has been making science news headlines recently.

The probes have been developed by scientists at the University of Central Florida and use near-infrared light to gain a deeper insight into tissue than was previously possible.

Professor Kevin Belfield, lead chemist on the project, says: "This is a game-changer.

"Until now, there was no real way to study lysosomes because existing techniques have severe limitations."

However, thanks to the stability of the new probe, longer imaging periods can be used and greater depths of tissue penetrated.

By adapting the probes, specific proteins can be targeted, allowing tumours to be potentially diagnosed and treated in the years to come.

The chemistry department of the University of Central Florida collaborates on technical issues and research opportunities with local and global organisations, enabling growth potential in the areas in which it operates.