Photonics biopsy
Photonics Biopsy is a novel theranostic system that evaluates cellular variables at the tip of a biopsy needle, allowing surgeons to differentiate between proliferating and healthy cells in real time.
Our minimally invasive system is designed to detect cancer, including diffuse tumors. But in addition to cancer, it can also identify dysplastic cells (eg. endometrial glandular dysplasia), precancerous lesions, and cells experiencing chronic inflammatory conditions.
Core technologies
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TRAST
Transient State (TRAST) Spectroscopy is an innovative fluorescence imaging technique that tracks the dark state transitions of fluorophores to extract valuable insights into biomolecular environments and interactions. By measuring changes in time-averaged fluorescence intensity under modulated excitation light, TRAST reveals environmental conditions such as oxygen concentration, redox states, and micro-viscosity without requiring single-molecule detection or high time-resolution setups. Its broad applicability is further enhanced by its integration into a biopsy needle, enabling direct use within the body to study cellular processes, measure the metabolic state of target cells in situ, and detect cancer cells by identifying unique metabolic signatures. This makes TRAST a highly effective and practical method for in vivo biomedical applications, metabolic analysis, and cancer diagnostics.
Images: Adapted from Tornmalm J, Sandberg E, Rabasovic M, Widengren J. (2019). "Local redox conditions in cells imaged via non-fluorescent transient states of NAD(P)H," Sci Rep, 9(1):15070. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-51526-w, licensed under CC BY 4.0.
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Light based therapy
Light-based therapy is a minimally invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with biological tissues. Depending on the wavelength and intensity, light can stimulate cellular responses, induce targeted damage, or modulate biochemical processes. This approach is widely used in medicine for applications such as tissue regeneration, wound healing, pain management, and antimicrobial treatments.
The therapy can be enhanced by using specialized agents that interact with light, amplifying its effects on targeted cells while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. Advances in light delivery systems, including fiber-optic technology and precision targeting methods, have expanded its potential for deeper tissue applications.
Our proprietary method combines targeted light delivery with advanced diagnostic techniques, such as TRAST, to assess cellular metabolism in situ. This enables precise treatment of affected areas, optimizing therapeutic outcomes while minimizing side effects. These innovations make light-based therapy a versatile tool in modern medicine, supporting both diagnostic and therapeutic applications across various fields.