Combination of Light and Ultrasound for Imaging and Therapy

Combined laser and ultrasound hybrid techniques have advanced rapidly, offering significant improvements over traditional single modality approaches. Diagnostic technologies such as photoacoustic imaging, which combines the high spatial resolution of ultrasound with the strong optical contrast achievable in deep tissue. have demonstrated superior performance in visualizing vascular networks. Therapeutic modalities that integrate laser and ultrasound are also emerging, showing promising potentials in various clinical applications through cavitation based mechanisms. By uniting these complementary technologies, the hybrid laser and ultrasound approaches overcome inherent limitations of each modality and deliver enhanced resolution, deeper penetration, and improved contrast for both imaging and therapeutic purposes.The goal of the current research Research Topic is to continue increasing awareness of hybrid laser and ultrasound technologies by gathering the most recent research developments in this rapidly evolving field. By showcasing a collection of high quality publications, from fundamental studies on underlying mechanisms to innovative engineering designs and translational investigations, we aim to facilitate deeper scientific discussion and promote interdisciplinary collaboration. Through this expanded dialogue, we hope to encourage more research teams around the world to explore the potential of these technologies, particularly in areas such as high resolution imaging, targeted therapy, contrast agent development, and real time monitoring of medical intervention. This Research Topic seeks to provide a platform for researchers to exchange new ideas, identify technical challenges, outline future research directions, and inspire broader clinical and industrial adoption of hybrid laser–ultrasound modalities.The scope of this Research Topic is to highlight recent innovations and emerging trends in the integration of light based and ultrasound based technologies for enhanced biomedical imaging, sensing, and therapeutic applications. The Research Topic welcomes studies that introduce new instrumentation, explore fundamental light/ultrasound and tissue interactions, demonstrate clinical feasibility, or propose new theoretical frameworks that advance the performance and applicability of combined modalities. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:• Photoacoustic sensing and imaging, including innovations in image acquisition, structural, functional and molecular photoacoustic imaging, deep tissue imaging strategies, laser excitation technologies, and advanced reconstruction algorithms.• Photo mediated ultrasound therapy, including laser enhanced ultrasound ablation, photomechanical and photothermal therapeutic mechanisms, multimodal treatment monitoring, and emerging theragnostic platforms that integrate energy delivery and biological response assessment.• Development of contrast agents for combined light–ultrasound modalities, such as novel nanoparticles, dyes, micro/nanobubbles, and engineered biomaterials designed to improve sensitivity, specificity, optical absorption characteristics, acoustic responses, or multimodal contrast performance.Please note: Review articles can be submitted by invitation only. Topic editors: Xinmai Yang, Xueding Wang Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78877/combination-of-light-and-ultrasound-for-imaging-and-therapy