The Valdez Lab
Research area: Novel imaging modalities for ear infections
Our research focuses on developing advanced imaging techniques using Shortwave Infrared (SWIR) to improve the detection and diagnosis of otitis media. By leveraging SWIR's deeper tissue penetration and increased fluid contrast, we aim to visualize fluid in the middle ear, a key indicator of infection. Additionally, we employ maltotriose as a potential marker for bacterial infection, given its specificity for bacteria combined with an FDA approved dye indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence to help differentiate bacterial from viral causes of infection. This approach promises to enhance diagnostic accuracy, enable targeted treatment, and reduce unnecessary antibiotic use in pediatric patients.
Another area of research in our laboratory is the development of nanocarriers able to deliver medications across and intact eardrum to the middle and inner ear. This will allow us to treat both middle ear conditions and deliver medications to the inner ear that can help prevent the progression of hearing loss.