Medical Engineering Collaboration / Life Sciences

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Nanoparticle Drug Delivery Systems

Medical Engineering Collaboration / Life SciencesNano technology

Nanoparticle Drug Delivery Systems

Brain cancer is most fatal among various types of cancer. Here, solid-lipid nanoparticles, which are formed by tiny pores, are successfully synthesised. Anti-cancer drugs are encapsulated in each pore and the surface of the particles are modified with transferrin and RGD tripeptide. The particles are monodisperse in water and biocompatible/biodegradable.
It has been proved by in vivo experiments that the drug encapsulated nanoparticles modified with transferrin and RGD penetrate the blood-brain barrier and reach brain tumours, as a result of which the target tumours are completely cured without showing any side effects. The optimal ratio of RGD to transferrin is obtained.
The present methodology can be applied to the treatment of different types of cancer by changing the surface modification and drugs.
Magnetic nanoparticles and quantum dots can be encapsulated in the present particles so that the particles can also be used for nano bio-imaging. The particles can be precisely manipulated by applying gradient dc magnetic fields, whereas they can be heated by applying high-frequency ac magnetic fields so that the drug release speed can be controlled and they can also be used for hyperthermia therapy.

Study of Highly Active Tyrosinase Inhibitor Isolated from Matsuouji and Mushroom Extract Library

Medical Engineering Collaboration / Life Sciences

Study of Highly Active Tyrosinase Inhibitor Isolated from Matsuouji and Mushroom Extract Library

It has long been known that mushrooms contain unique physiologically active substances. However, in practice, it is not easy to identify useful bioactive substances.
At Tottori University, we are constructing a mushroom extract library centered on rotting fungi. In the process, our laboratory succeeded in isolating an unprecedented level of highly active tyrosinase inhibitor from Matsuouji (Scientific Name: Neolentinus lepideus), and we also determined the structure of this mushroom.
We welcome consultations from cosmetics companies that are interested in this compound, as well as companies that are interested in exploring, developing, and commercializing new physiologically active substances using the Tottori University's Mushroom Extract Library.

Robotic Dental Treatment System

Medical Engineering Collaboration / Life Sciences

Robotic Dental Treatment System

In recent years, CAD/CAM technology has been changing dentistry and computerization is progressing rapidly, mainly in the field of dental laboratory work. However, preparation (cutting or grinding) of tooth is still performed manually using dental handpieces. This technology aims to realize "Software-Defined Dentistry" by developing a robotic dental treatment system that is used under a dentist’s control and computerizes the tooth preparation.The benefits of the robotic dental treatment system include improved precision and reduced unevenness of finish in the tooth preparation. This is expected to enhance fitting accuracy of dental restorations, thereby reducing issues such as detachment, breakage, and secondary caries.Integrating the robotic dental treatment system with existing dental CAD/CAM systems will digitize all processes from the tooth preparation to fabrication of the restorations, maximizing the benefits of CAD/CAM. Additionally, significant derivative effects are anticipated, such as optimization of machining conditions, compatibility with AI, and applications in dental education systems.

Battery-free thin-film virus sensor

Medical Engineering Collaboration / Life Sciences

Battery-free thin-film virus sensor

In our group, we focused on the molecular mechanism by which the ligands on the virus surface recognize the differences in receptors present on the cell membrane surfaces of humans and other animals. Incorporating this "biomimetic approach," we developed a new conductive polymer (PEDOT derivative) that detects with high sensitivity and selectivity. This technology allows for the easy creation of devices through methods like inkjet printing, and since it detects changes in electrical properties in a label-free manner, it can provide on-the-spot virus detection with a compact and portable electric virus detection method at a low cost.
Furthermore, by adding components of the biological membrane lipids to reduce non-specific adsorption, the sensitivity for the human influenza virus improved by 100 times compared to traditional immunological methods. Additionally, this method enabled us to distinguish between different types of viruses. As the technology can adapt to detect different viruses by changing the type of receptor, we are currently aiming not only to enhance the universality of targeted virus detection but also to detect viruses floating in the air in aerosol form through thin film devices. Beyond just point-of-care on-site detection, we are working towards the realization of wearable and implantable biosensing technology known as "smart stickers."

Innovative Catalyst: Transforming Fuel Cells for Sustainable Energy Solutions

Medical Engineering Collaboration / Life SciencesEnvironment / Organic chemistry / Inorganic chemistry

Innovative Catalyst: Transforming Fuel Cells for Sustainable Energy Solutions

This groundbreaking catalyst revolutionizes fuel cell technology by substituting the O2- anion within mayenite C12A7 with a halogen element or electron. This strategic modification results in exceptional capabilities for both the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) and the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), rivaling platinum efficiency. Synthesized from cost-effective materials, it emerges as a promising platinum substitute, particularly in polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs). The catalyst's unique replacement of the O2- anion enhances its catalytic prowess, achieving dual capability in HOR and ORR. Positioned as a strong competitor against platinum, it mitigates problems associated with crystalline surfaces, a significant advancement for fuel cell applications.

Non-contact Measurement of Vital Signs and its Clinical Applications

Medical Engineering Collaboration / Life Sciences

Non-contact Measurement of Vital Signs and its Clinical Applications

We are a certified venture company that originated from the University of Electro-Communications (UEC), Tokyo, Japan. Our core focus lies in groundbreaking research and development of non-contact vital sign sensing technology.
At our company, we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the healthcare industry. By harnessing non-contact sensing, we aim to revolutionize how vital signs are monitored and measured. Our cutting-edge technology eliminates the need for traditional physical contact, offering a non-invasive and seamless experience for patients.
As a venture company originating from UEC, we benefit from a strong foundation of academic expertise and a culture of innovation. Our team consists of brilliant researchers, engineers, and industry professionals who are passionate about transforming healthcare through technology.
We are committed to translating our research into practical solutions that make a meaningful impact on people's lives. By pushing the boundaries of non-contact vital sign sensing technology, we aim to shape the future of healthcare and contribute to a healthier and more connected world.

AkaSuke™: A Highly bright luminescence substrate for in vivo bioluminescence imaging (BLI)

Medical Engineering Collaboration / Life Sciences

AkaSuke™: A Highly bright luminescence substrate for in vivo bioluminescence imaging (BLI)

We have succeeded in developing a new labeling material for deep in vivo visualization: luminescence substrate “AkaSuke™”.
AkaSuke™” has both near-infrared emission characteristics suitable for deep in vivo visualization and water solubility for in vivo administration. In addition, “AkaSuke™” has achieved a 6 times-fold increase in brightness compared to D-luciferin.
Focusing on the reaction mechanism between the luminescence substrate (firefly luciferin) and the luminescent enzyme (firefly luciferase) involved in the firefly luminescence, we have realized multicolor luminescence materials covering all visible light and have developed firefly bioluminescence labeling materials by organic synthesis of a number of luciferin derivatives that emit in the near-infrared region, among others.
In this study, we have applied these findings to realize high luminescence by using natural enzyme "Fluc".

TokeOni ® : the new luciferin analogue for innovative bioluminescence imaging

Medical Engineering Collaboration / Life Sciences

TokeOni ® : the new luciferin analogue for innovative bioluminescence imaging

In vivo optical imaging is a technology that allows visualization of the inside of an animal's body while it is still alive by illuminating only specific cells (e.g., cancer).
We have been working to develop new materials based on luciferin, a bioluminescent substance found in fireflies.
Based on this research, we have successfully synthesized a luminescence substrate with a luminescence peak in the window region of the living body (650 nm to 900 nm). This makes it possible to observe living organisms by making them glow while they are alive and enables imaging down to a depth of 5 to 6 cm from the epidermis.

Furthermore, Aka-BLI, a combination of Tokeoni optimized mutant “AkaLuc” and Tokeoni, enables quantitative observation of a small number of cells that have been difficult to detect.
In addition, Aka-BLI can be used to quantitatively observe neurons in the brain. Aka-BLI is 1000 times stronger than green-BLI, which combines firefly luciferin and wild-type luciferase, and also successfully used for imaging of marmoset striatum.

Development of Metal Myoelectric Hand Prothesis with Lightweight and Robust Optimal Design generated by Generative Design

Medical Engineering Collaboration / Life SciencesITManufacturing

Development of Metal Myoelectric Hand Prothesis with Lightweight and Robust Optimal Design generated by Generative Design

We have developed a lightweight and robust metal myoelectric prosthetic hand using an optimization design tool called Generative Design. As a result, we were able to achieve the lightest weight while maintaining the robustness required for myoelectric prosthetic hands. Furthermore, by introducing a torsion spring with moving parts only in the gripping direction at the joins of the four-finger bases, the necessary pinch force (force to grasp an object) is ensured while receiving an unexpected external force.