In vivo imaging apparatus, systems, and methods using optical nanoparticles

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has issued patent US12582302B2, titled "In vivo imaging apparatus, systems, and methods using optical nanoparticles." The patent, assigned to The Regents of the University of California, details the use of optical nanoparticles, specifically upconverting nanoparticles, for improved in vivo tissue imaging, including cancer tissues. The technology involves introducing nanoparticles into a patient, illuminating them at a specific wavelength, and then imaging at a different wavelength to enhance resolution and potentially decrease the size of imaging devices.

This patent grant represents a new intellectual property right for a specific technology in medical imaging. While it does not impose direct compliance obligations on other entities, it may impact future product development and market entry for companies operating in the medical device and diagnostic imaging sectors. Companies developing or utilizing similar in vivo imaging technologies should review the patent claims to ensure they do not infringe on this granted patent. The filing date for this application was September 4, 2020.