Optimization of working conditions for magnetic nanoparticle enhanced ultra-wide band breast cancer detection

In the framework of medical applications of microwaves, magnetic nanoparticles enhanced microwave imaging represents a promising diagnostic modality. As a matter of fact, it merges the safety, low-cost and portability of microwave technology with the increased specificity enabled by the selective targeting capability of magnetic nanoparticles. In particular, a key ingredient of this technique is the possibility of modulating the response of nanoparticles in the microwave range by means of an external polarizing magnetic field. To this end, the amplitudes of the polarizing field have to be properly set, in order to achieve optimal performances. In this communication, we present an experimental study aimed at optimizing the working conditions in terms of field strength of a ultra-wide band radar system for detecting a magnetic nanoparticle induced contrast.