Overall Opportunity Analysis

Abstract

Some of the most recent trends in combinations of photothermal therapy, sonodynamic therapy, magnetic hyperthermia therapy, chemotherapy, and cold plasma therapy with photodynamic therapy, and opportunities for further innovation in these non-invasive biomedical technologies and the supporting devices have been discussed in Chapters 1–13. The basic reflections on magnetic hyperthermia therapy, photothermal therapy, sonodynamic therapy, chemotherapy, and cold plasma therapy are presented as a way of preparing for the discussions on the various combinations with photodynamic therapy. The ever-present and confounding challenge of hypoxia and the research and innovation opportunities associated with it are discussed briefly. These opportunities are suitable for further research. The consistent themes of the various developmental research and practice discussions towards clinical translation across these discussions, including synthesis, characterization, in vitro and in vivo studies, clinical trials and clinical case studies, are aimed at identifying the value chain gaps upon which opportunities for further research and innovations may be based. The recurring themes of the use of nanomaterials and the pursuit of cellular level targeting for selectivity of the various combinations offer the greatest opportunities for further research and innovation. Despite the disciplinary origins of these novel ideas, due to the interdisciplinary evolution of the research and innovation that has brought them to where they are now, they have given rise to biomedical innovations of high significance and are likely to continue this trend. This chapter presents a critical opportunity analysis emanating from consideration of these combinations.