In a surprising breakthrough, researchers at Stanford University successfully rendered mouse skin transparent using a dye commonly found in snacks like Doritos. This novel use of FD&C Yellow 5 could potentially lead to transformative medical diagnostic techniques.
According to Fox News, scientists employed FD&C Yellow 5 to achieve non-invasive visualization of mouse organs, a method that may revolutionize diagnostics and treatments.
Led by Dr. Guosong Hong, the study was published on Sept. 5 in *Science*, titled "Achieving optical transparency in live animals with absorbing molecules." In this research, the team applied a solution containing tartrazine, also known as FD&C Yellow 5, to sedated mice, specifically targeting the abdomen, scalp, and hindlimb.
Interestingly, the treated skin initially turned red but gradually became transparent enough to reveal underlying organs. This transparency, however, was temporary and disappeared once the dye was washed off.
This discovery is notable because it introduces the first non-invasive method to visually explore the living internal organs of a mouse. Dr. Hong highlighted the unexpected results, stating, "This goes against what we typically expect with dyes." Typically, dyes darken or color materials, rather than making them see-through.
Moreover, the researchers found that dissolving tartrazine in opaque substances, such as skin or muscle, allowed red light to pass through more clearly. Dr. Hong further elucidated the technical aspect, explaining that the dye’s unique properties significantly enhance transparency when combined with biological tissues.
The implications of this technique for human medical practice are extensive; however, further research is necessary. Nevertheless, Dr. Hong expresses optimism about the method’s potential applications, such as non-invasive diagnostics like tumor identification and more precise medical procedures, including enhanced blood draws and laser tattoo removal.
For instance, Dr. Hong noted, "Instead of relying on invasive biopsies, doctors might be able to diagnose deep-seated tumors by simply examining a person’s tissue," highlighting the less invasive potential benefits of this technique.
Despite these exciting potentials, Dr. Hong remains cautious about prematurely using this dye on human skin. He warned, "We strongly discourage attempting this on human skin, as the toxicology of dye molecules in humans, particularly when applied topically, has not been fully evaluated."
Additionally, he clarified the discrepancy between the food use of Yellow 5 and its application in medical contexts: "Although Doritos – and many other foods – contain Yellow 5, it will not make a person's skin transparent." This statement directly addresses misconceptions about the effects of consuming foods containing the dye.
The research team at Stanford is now focusing on developing safer delivery methods for the dye with potential medical uses. However, they will need to carefully adapt the promising results from mice for human applications due to the thicker and more complex nature of human skin.
As this research progresses, it could significantly ease certain medical procedures and improve diagnostic accuracy. Consequently, it may change how medical professionals interact with internal human anatomy without requiring surgical interventions.
