Spatial Frequency Domain Imaging: Non-Invasive Approach to Monitor Postprandial Cardiovascular Health, Study Finds

Alongside imaging, researchers tracked blood pressure and heart rate, and also performed blood draws to measure triglycerides, cholesterol, and glucose levels. The results indicated that the optical absorption changes at specific wavelengths accurately correspond to variations in lipid concentrations.

Building on these insights, the team then trained a machine learning model using spatial frequency domain imaging data to predict triglyceride levels, achieving an accuracy within 40 mg/dL. This precision could pave the way for noninvasive monitoring of cardiovascular health.

Senior author Darren Roblyer, professor of biomedical engineering at Boston University, remarks, “The research suggests that spatial frequency domain imaging could serve as a promising alternative, allowing for easier monitoring of how meals affect cardiovascular health.” He adds, “Overall, these findings highlight the intricate relationship between diet, body response, and cardiovascular risk, suggesting a need for further exploration of non-invasive assessment methods.”

Reference: Anahita Pilvar, Jorge Plutzky, Darren Roblyer, "Enhanced peripheral tissue oxygenation and hemoglobin concentration after a high-fat meal measured with spatial frequency domain imaging," Biophoton. Discovery 1(2) 025004 (12 September 2024) https://doi.org/10.1117/1.BIOS.1.2.025004