Regensburg 2025 – scientific programme

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BP: Fachverband Biologische Physik

BP 17: Poster Session II

BP 17.28: Poster

Tuesday, March 18, 2025, 18:00–20:30, P4

Investigating Ultrasonic Effects on Oral Cancer Cells Using Fluorescence Microscopy — •Wafa Tounsi, Amar Avdakovic, Vivian Maria Gulczynski, and Mathias Getzlaff — Institute of Applied Physics, University of Duesseldorf

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a challenging and often resilient cancer that affects many people globally. As conventional treatments sometimes fall short of effectively targeting these cancer cells without causing damage to surrounding healthy tissue, our research focuses on finding innovative alternatives. Our contribution explores the potential of using ultrasonic frequencies to selectively affect cancer cells while sparing healthy ones, offering a possible new avenue for treatment. In this study, we investigate how HNSCC cells respond to ultrasonic waves at frequencies between 20 and 250 kHz. We compare their reactions to benign oral keratinocytes, aiming to pinpoint acoustic conditions that might selectively disrupt cancer cells. In combination with Fluorescence Microscopy, we track various cellular responses, including changes in cell shape, membrane stability, and mitochondrial activity, using specific fluorochromes such as CellMask Green for plasma membranes, Hoechst for nuclear staining, and MitoTracker for mitochondria. By observing these differences, especially in the cytoskeleton, we gain valuable insights into the unique vulnerabilities of HNSCC cells, potentially paving the way for ultrasound-based, non-invasive treatments. Exploiting the distinct mechanical properties of cancer cells could enhance patient outcomes by enabling safer, more targeted treatments.

Keywords: Mechanical properties of cancer cells; Selective targeting; Squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC); Ultrasonic therapy; Cellular behavior