Electrodenaturation treatment of tumours using a one-probe two-electrodes device

F. MAGLIETTI; N. OLAIZ; C. SUAREZ; F. V. MOLINA; D. MIKLAVCIC; L. MIR; G. MARSHALL

Ljubljana

Workshop; Electroporation based Technologies and Treatments. International Scientific Workshop; 2009

University of Ljubljana and Institute of Oncology

We have recently shown that in the classical electrochemical treatment (EChT) of tumors i.e., the passage of a direct electric current through electrodes inserted locally in the tumor tissue, from an initial uniform condition two pH fronts evolve expanding towards each other, inducing extreme pH changes and tumor destruction, mainly by necrosis. Here we extend this methodology introducing a one-probe two-electrode device (OPTED) containing the cathode and the anode very close to each other (1 mm). Experiments show that upon application of the OPTED-EChT, two half-spherical pH fronts, one basic and the other acid (originating from cathode and anode, respectively), expand towards the periphery conforming a distorted full sphere. pH front tracking reveals a time scaling close to t1/2, signature of a diffusion-controlled process. An Analytical model presented allows the prediction of the time needed for total tumor destruction with a minimum compromise of healthy tissue. Main advantages of the OPTED are the insertion of one applicator rather than two or more (thus minimizing tissue intrusion), the ability of reaching tumors beyond capabilities of conventional surgery and the minimization of electric current circulation through the treated organ. We propose this new design which could have significant implications in EChT optimal operative conditions, in particular, in the way in which the evolving pH spherical fronts can cover and destroy a cancer cell spherical casket.