Multimodal photoacoustic computed tomography technology and applications

Photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) combines optical functional contrast with ultrasonic spatial resolution, enabling noninvasive structural and functional imaging of deep tissues. However, PACT has inherent limitations, including low soft tissue anatomical contrast, depth-dependent quantitative accuracy, and limited penetration depth. By integrating PACT with ultrasound imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), optical imaging (fluorescence imaging, optical coherence tomography, Raman imaging), and radiological imaging (CT, SPECT/PET), complementary and enhanced information across modalities can be achieved. This review systematically outlines the principles and mechanisms of multimodal PACT techniques, including hardware integration, image registration, probe development, and dual-modality system design. It also introduces practical applications across fields, including tumor diagnosis, neuroscience, vascular disease assessment, and skin lesion detection. Research indicates that multimodal PACT can integrate structural anatomy, functional metabolism, and molecular specificity information, leading to more comprehensive imaging. This provides a powerful tool for preclinical research and clinical translation, offering broad application prospects.