Endoscopy is a standard diagnostic tool for gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, but its reliability is often limited, and reliance on traditional histopathology can delay cancer treatment and increase costs. This underscores the urgent need for optical biopsy and real-time pathology technologies. The ERC-funded MULTIPROBE project addresses this challenge by developing a photonic endoscopic device that integrates optical diagnostics with cold atmospheric plasma therapy. The device leverages advanced multimode fibres and precise light control—technologies previously underutilized due to concerns about light degradation—to enable real-time, in vivo assessment of GI tissue. By combining immediate optical biopsy with targeted plasma treatment, MULTIPROBE aims to provide both rapid diagnosis and therapeutic intervention, paving the way for more efficient, minimally invasive cancer care.

“The MULTIPROBE project, funded by the European Research Council, develops an innovative endoscopic platform that integrates real-time optical biopsy with cold atmospheric plasma therapy, enabling simultaneous diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal cancers.”

Conclusion

The ERC-funded MULTIPROBE project is developing a next-generation endoscopic device that combines real-time optical biopsy with cold atmospheric plasma therapy. By integrating advanced multimode fibres and precise light control, this technology enables immediate in vivo diagnosis and targeted therapeutic intervention for gastrointestinal disorders. MULTIPROBE addresses the limitations of conventional endoscopy and delayed histopathology, promising faster, minimally invasive cancer detection and treatment while reducing costs and improving patient outcomes.