Research Rotation Project

Photonic approach to the inactivation of viruses with ultrashort pulsed lasers

Kong-Thon Tsen
Home Department - Physics
Areas of Study - Experimental Solid State Physics and biophysics
Office - PSF 340
Phone - 4809655206
E-mail - tsen@asu.edu
Designation - Experimental

Biochemical and pharmaceutical methods currently used for the inactivation of viral particles, although quite successful, encounter problems of drug resistance in the target virus. In addition, they also have clinical side effects. The ultraviolet disinfection method is effective, however, it kills both the viruses and healthy materials such as mammalian cells; The microwave absorption technique is not effective because most of the energy is transferred to the water and not to the target viral particle. Recently, a photochemical technique has been developed to disinfect blood supplies. However, potential risks and side effects have hindered its applications. We have developed a new method that circumvents these problems. Our photonic approach could be used for the disinfection of viral pathogens in blood products and for the treatment of blood-borne viral diseases in the clinic. Students will research on the inactivation of viruses by using ultrashort pulsed lasers with emphasis on the physics behind the inactivation.