Stepwise implementation of a low-cost and portable radiofrequency hyperthermia system for in vitro/in vivo cancer studies

Abstract

In recent years, interactions of radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields with biological tissue have become one of the most promising strategies for noninvasive cancer hyperthermia treatment. Despite the growing interest, there has been a scarcity of studies involving the detailed construction of a complete RF-hyperthermia (RF-HT) system. Here a low-cost and high-power RF-HT system is reported with a specific frequency which can be used in biological samples. A laboratory-constructed RF-HT system composed of a radiofrequency oscillator, radiofrequency driver, radiofrequency amplifier, radiofrequency matching network, and an induction coil applicator were constructed and characterized by a stepwise approach. Although the RF driver and amplifier were purchased as professionally designed kits, significant modifications were required for these components. The results showed that the RF-HT system was successfully constructed and tested at 13.56 MHz with a power as high as 400 W. As a preliminary biological experiment, cell culture medium exhibited an approximate 3 degrees C increase in temperature induced by the RF-HT device at 250 W for 10 min. Moreover, the developed system is suitable drug targeting, drug release, and cellular uptake and designed to be cost-effective for in vitro/in vivo studies involving cancer therapy.