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MEDICA.de, your source for the latest industry news and editorial contributions!

Our dedicated editorial team works year-round to present you with high-quality content from the medical technology branch on our industry portal MEDICA.de.

Whether you are interested in high-tech medical products, innovative technologies, medical research, or new treatment methods - with us you will find well-founded articles that will help you stay up to date. Our editorial team closely follows the latest trends, medical advances and technologies.

Editorial articles cover a wide range of topics, including medical technology, medical imaging, diagnostics, digital health, physiotherapy, laboratory & diagnostics, and hospital and practice equipment, among many others. We offer in-depth analysis, expert interviews and informative articles and videos to help you better understand the complexities of the medical world.

We pride ourselves on being a trusted source of information for the medical industry and look forward to keeping you informed throughout the year.

Latest news from the five MEDICA spheres

Image: Prof. Martin Wermke in a half-portrait wearing a black blazer over a light blue shirt and looks serious into the camera; Copyright: UKD

IMA203 cell therapy achieves lasting tumor response

At NCT/UCC Dresden, the new IMA203 cell therapy achieves durable responses in solid tumors and could offer new treatment options for many patients.

Image: Two researchers in laboratory examining a surgical demonstration setup equipped with a new sensor-based handle; Copyright: NYU Abu Dhabi

Sensor system enhances tactile feedback in MIS

NYU Abu Dhabi developed a sensor handle for real-time force and tissue feedback in minimally invasive surgery, improving precision and safety.

Image: Brain scan to help with 3D anatomical data

Augmented reality enhances bedside EVD placement

Augmented reality (AR) guidance can significantly improve the accuracy and safety of bedside placement of external ventricular drains (EVDs).

Image: The image shows a patient being positioned on a treatment table under a linear accelerator; Copyright: Karin Kaiser/MHH

New monitoring system enhances radiotherapy

With a new linear accelerator, the MHH is improving the monitoring and control of radiotherapy - to the benefit of patients.

Image: Group of researchers looking at a robotic arm holding a cup; Copyright: MPI-IS / W. Scheible

Artificial muscles for tremor suppression: A biorobotic arm

Involuntary movements significantly impact daily activities for people with tremor. Wearable exoskeletons can be a solution.

Image: Ngan Le stands with folded arms in front of two screens displaying medical image analysis; copyright: Russell Cothren

AI enhances transparency in chest X-ray analysis

Researchers have developed ItpCtrl-AI, which mimics the gaze of radiologists to improve accuracy and explainability in medical imaging.

Image: The image shows an industrial X-ray or CT analyzer with a clamped sample holder; copyright: Empa

New 3D imaging enhances thyroid cancer diagnosis

A new non-invasive histopathological 3D imaging technique allows tissue to be viewed in three dimensions on screen.

Image: Four people are standing at a linear accelerator with a rotating table top; Copyright: Karin Kaiser/MHH

Rotational radiotherapy enhances patient comfort

Whole-body radiation under rotation makes the treatment process much easier for seriously ill people with leukemia.

Image: Schematic illustration showing the absorption of light in the VIS, NIR-I, and NIR-II regions; Copyright: Tokyo Metropolitan University

New dye advances photothermal cancer treatment and imaging

This development of a new dye holds potential for enhancing cancer diagnosis and treatment, as well as for other deep-tissue medical applications.

Image: MRI scans showing lung dysfunction heatmaps with color-coded scores from yellow to red; Copyright: Newcastle University, UK

MRI scanning method enhances understanding of lung function

A study by researchers at Newcastle University, has introduced a new MRI scanning method that provides real-time insights into lung function.

Image: Robot assisting a person with health issues

Service robots in healthcare: relieve for healthcare personnel

The "Service robots as work support in municipal health and care services" (SAKO) project, led by the University of Agder, is a pioneering initiative addressing critical challenges in healthcare. The project focuses on integrating service robots to alleviate physically demanding tasks for healthcare personnel, enhancing service quality and working conditions.

Image: A detailed image of Caltech's bioresorbable acoustic hydrogel microrobots, which shows rows of structured spheres; Copyright: Hong Han

Microrobots for precision drug delivery

Researchers at Caltech have developed bioresorbable microrobots designed to deliver drugs directly to targeted sites within the body.

Image: The Aurora system on an operating table; Copyright: umg/samer al mhethawi

For the first time: defibrillator with sternum electrode implanted

A defibrillator with a sternum electrode was implanted for the first time at University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG). The Aurora System provides a gentler alternative to conventional therapies for sudden cardiac arrest, offering new perspectives particularly for specific patient groups.

Image: Professor examines a woman's head with brain simulation/ultrasound; Copyright: University of Plymouth

Ultrasound as a key tool for brain research

Ultrasound, once primarily used for imaging, is emerging as a precise and non-invasive tool for brain research and therapy. Researchers from the University of Plymouth, Stanford University, and Attune Neurosciences highlight its potential in a new PLOS Biology article, detailing its applications and challenges.

Image: Medical plate to assist with securing the surgery field; Copyright: Osaka Metropolitan University

Simplified approach to securing the surgical field with a plastic device

Robot-assisted heart surgeries traditionally require an assistant to ensure the surgeon has adequate room to maneuver the robotic arms through small incisions. To address this dependency, researchers from Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a surgical field expansion plate that offers surgeons greater independence during procedures.

Image: Close-up of a neurotechnology experiment: The setup enables the combination of virtual reality technology and non-invasive brain stimulation; Copyright: EPFL

EPFL researchers develop non-invasive neurotechnology to improve spatial memory

EPFL researchers have developed a neurotechnology that uses virtual reality, non-invasive brain stimulation, and fMRI imaging to improve spatial memory without surgery or medication. This method targets the hippocampus to enhance navigation and recall, offering potential for future dementia therapies.

Image: Simulation model of the knee joint; Copyright: Fraunhofer MEVIS

Optimized therapy for cruciate ligament injuries through digital simulation

The Fraunhofer Institute for Digital Medicine MEVIS, the University Medical Center Freiburg and Stryker Leibinger GmbH have received an award for their work on a finite element simulation for individual therapy planning for knee injuries. This innovative method enables personalized planning of cruciate ligament operations and could prevent long-term follow-up problems such as osteoarthritis.

Surgical staff standing next to a person on a stretcher in the operating room, with a robot-assisted system to the right; Copyright: Fraunhofer ILT, Aachen / Ralf Baumgarten

Robotically assisted laser procedure for spinal surgery

In spinal canal stenosis, bony growths narrow the spinal canal, which often leads to chronic pain or paralysis in patients. Around 111,000 of these operations are performed in Germany every year, with surgery often being the only solution.

Image: Two men in an examination room; one sits on an MRI couch, the other stands next to it; Copyright: Dr. Andreas Voskrebenzev/MHH

PREFUL MRI as an alternative to conventional lung imaging

The diagnosis and assessment of lung diseases often presents medical professionals with major challenges. Traditional methods such as computed tomography (CT) offer detailed structural images of the lungs, but involve radiation exposure for patients and provide no information on regional lung function.

Image: Hand holding a small vessel containing substance with gold nanoparticles; Copyright: University of Texas at Dallas

Gold nanoparticles for kidney disease detection

Researchers from the University of Texas at Dallas have discovered that gold nanoparticles may offer a more accurate method of detecting kidney disease than traditional blood tests. Their study suggests that X-ray imaging using gold nanoparticles as a contrast agent could improve kidney function assessment and provide crucial insights into nanoparticle-based therapies.

Image: Image captured by the 3D photoacoustic scanner; Copyright: Dr Nam Huynh

Handheld 3D photoacoustic scanner could improve disease diagnosis

A research team at University College London (UCL) has developed a new handheld scanner that generates detailed 3D photoacoustic images in just seconds. The device shows potential for clinical use, particularly in diagnosing conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis.

Image: Medical staff talking to a patient in an ambulance; Copyright: Magnus Andersson

Video support in stroke care: Enhancing early diagnosis

A study led by Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden, demonstrates that real-time video streaming from ambulances to stroke specialists can significantly reduce treatment times for acute stroke patients, improving their chances of recovery. By enabling early diagnosis and direct transport to the optimal hospital, this approach supports faster and more effective stroke care.

Image: A hand pressing a light switch with its finger, all in red; Copyright: Lars Knaack/INM

OptoAssays: New light-controlled tests simplify cost-effective diagnostics

A team of researchers from the University of Freiburg and the INM - Leibniz Institute for New Materials has developed a bio-based test procedure that can diagnose complex diseases simply and cheaply. These “OptoAssays” use light control to move biomolecules and read out results without mechanical support - with potential applications in on-site diagnostics.

Image: Surgery in process to implant a device; Copyright: University of Chicago Medicine

Revi neuromodulation: A new approach to UUI treatment

UChicago Medicine recently performed the first implantation of the Revi neuromodulation device in Illinois. This minimally invasive procedure offers a novel treatment option for patients suffering from urinary urgency incontinence (UUI). The Revi device aims to improve bladder control without the side effects or limitations of existing treatments.

Image: Close-up of the Optrell mapping catheter; Copyright: umg/hzg, Eva Meyer-Besting

First time in Germany: use of the new mapping catheter

The Heart Center of the University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG) is the first in Germany to use the Optrell mapping catheter - a procedure that makes the treatment of complex cardiac arrhythmias more precise and efficient. The new instrument creates high-resolution “maps” of the heart and makes it easier to identify problematic areas for targeted therapy.

Image: OCT image of a stent and AI evaluation of color-coded tissue patterns; Copyright: Helmholtz Munich / Valentin Koch

AI speeds up stent healing assessment after implantation

DeepNeo automates OCT image evaluation after stent placement, offering fast, precise insights for post-intervention care.

Image: Medical CT images on multiple monitors showing cross-sectional images of the abdominal cavity; Copyright: Astrid Eckert, Muenchen

AI detects early kidney issues in cancer patients

TUM researchers use AI to spot early kidney damage in prostate cancer therapy – before functional decline appears.

Image: A wearable, flexible sensor array with circular patterns applied to a person's forearm; Copyright: University of Surrey

Battery-free wearables for dementia and prenatal care

Z-PULSE develops energy-harvesting wearables for real-time monitoring in dementia and pregnancy care – no batteries or external power required.

Image: The image depicts a roll-up biosensor with multiple black electrode points; Copyright: Xuanbing Cheng and Zongqi Li/Emaminejad Lab

Sensor tracks body metabolites in real time

UCLA’s TMR sensor continuously measures key metabolites, supporting personalized medicine, diagnostics, drug development and metabolic research.

Image: The graphic shows a wearable device with five sensor arms, designed in the shape of a starfish; Copyright: Courtesy of Zheng Yan

Starfish wearable enables accurate heart monitoring

A starfish-shaped wearable from Missouri researchers improves heart signal tracking during movement using multiple sensors and AI support.

Image: Mannequin with multiple sensors for health monitoring attached; Copyright: Messe Düsseldorf/Andreas Wiese

Remote monitoring with t-shirt as wearable

A wearable t-shirt, designed to collect vital patient data after urological cancer surgery, may enable earlier hospital discharge.

Image: Three men install wearable sensors on a mannequin while medical data is displayed on a nearby monitor; Copyright: RPTU, Thomas Koziel

Using 6G to advance preventive digital healthcare

Researchers are developing a 6G-based sensor network to support continuous health monitoring and improve preventive medical care.

Image: A group stands in front of a Resort in Ghana, surrounded by palm trees; copyright: Courtesy of Valencia Koomson

Mobile app AHOMKA supports blood pressure management

Researchers have developed the AHOMKA platform, a mobile application designed to support patient-to-doctor communication.

Image: A medical professional analyzes graphs and data on a computer; copyright: Helén Sjöland

Arrhythmia: Software robot enhances treatment monitoring

A software robot can detect side effects from amiodarone treatment faster than physicians. This streamlines work and reduces costs.

Image: A woman in a blue sweater holds her aching hand; Copyright: Karin Kaiser/MHH

New digital therapy platform for rheumatism patients

The RELIEV project is developing a digital therapy platform to help people with inflammatory rheumatic diseases regardless of their location.

Image: A man photographs a woman's skin lesion with a smartphone for the SkinDoc app; Copyright: Lando Lehmann/ DFKI.

SkinDoc: explainable AI for teledermatology

DFKI's SkinDoc is an AI-supported teledermatology solution that enables the reproducible assessment of skin lesions.

Image: Hands putting on a smartwatch on another person’s arm for monitoring health condition

Smartwatches and Psychiatry: A New Perspective

Smartwatches, commonly associated with fitness tracking, could also serve as valuable tools in psychiatry. According to a study published in Cell and led by Mark Gerstein, data from wearable devices has the potential to improve the understanding of psychiatric illnesses and their genetic components.

Image: Two surgeons in green surgical attire demonstrate a medical procedure on a model head, with one of them wearing standard data glasses; Copyright: Fraunhofer IWU

Enhanced navigation in neurosurgery

Spatial computing navigation is based on standard data glasses and will offer optimized navigation in the future - economically and efficiently.

Image: The image shows two portraits of men on the left and right sides, with a portrait of a woman in the center; Copyright: Elvira Eberhardt / Ulm University, FSJD-CERCA

Digital training platform to boost mental health in adolescents

The international EU project IMPROVA, with key contributions from Ulm University, has developed an eHealth platform aimed at improving the mental health of adolescents. An 18-month field study involving schools in four countries, including Germany, will assess its effectiveness through comprehensive surveys involving students, parents, and teachers.

Image: High-tech operating room with a large robotic arm; Copyright: Fraunhofer IPA

The role of 5G technology in hybrid operating rooms

The 5G-OR project, an international collaboration between German and French research teams, is exploring how 5G and AI technologies can enhance the safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of surgeries. By developing high-tech hybrid operating rooms, the project paves the way for remote surgeries, improved patient monitoring, and real-time data exchange.

Image: Person standing in front of a large screen with brain scans; Copyright: Liz Kaye, Indiana University

The use of AI in brain cancer diagnosis, monitoring and treatment

New recommendations, published in The Lancet Oncology, provide new guidance for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the diagnosis and treatment of brain cancer. The goal is to enable more objective tumor measurements and improve patient care through standardized AI applications.

Image: Small wearable patch for measuring blood pressure placed on a fingertip; Copyright: David Baillot/UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering

Wearable ultrasound patch: Addressing limitations of traditional blood pressure monitoring

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed a clinically validated, wearable ultrasound patch for continuous blood pressure monitoring. Published in Nature Biomedical Engineering, this technology offers a noninvasive, reliable alternative to traditional methods, such as arterial lines and blood pressure cuffs, with applications in both clinical and home settings.

Image: Flexible exletroceutical patch placed on an arm; Copyright: Saehyun Kim, the University of Chicago

Bioelectronic patch: Tackling antibiotic resistance with electrical stimulation

Researchers at the University of Chicago and the University of California San Diego have developed a flexible bioelectronic patch that delivers mild electrical signals to bacteria on the skin. This device presents a noninvasive, drug-free method to reduce the harmful effects of bacterial infections, particularly those resistant to antibiotics.

Image: Explanatory picture of the XR simulator; Copyright: Noriyo Colley, et al. Journal of Nursing Care & Reports. September 30, 2024

Addressing a growing demand for pediatric care: XR simulator

Hokkaido University researchers in Japan have developed the Simmar+ESTE-SIM, an advanced XR simulator that provides nursing students with realistic, hands-on training in pediatric procedures such as mechanical ventilation and tracheal suctioning.

Image: Robotic sensory cilia to monitor internal biomarkers up close; Copyright: Vanderbilt University

Artificial cilia system for real-time airway disease monitoring

Researchers led by Xiaoguang Dong, assistant professor of mechanical engineering at Vanderbilt University, have developed artificial cilia to monitor mucus conditions in human airways.

Image: Example illustration of the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion test; Copyright: UZH

AI supports the detection of antibiotic resistance

A pilot study at the University of Zurich is the first to demonstrate the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in identifying antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Researchers used the GPT-4 model to support the diagnostic process in the laboratory and thus relieve the burden on medical professionals in the fight against increasing antibiotic resistance worldwide.

Image: Five people standing next to each other and smiling into the camera; Copyright: DGKL

AI improves leukemia diagnostics: award for Dresden researchers

Dr. Jan Middeke and Dr. Jan-Niklas Eckardt from Dresden University Hospital have received an award from the German Society for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (DGKL) for their work on improving leukaemia diagnostics using artificial intelligence (AI). The award, worth 15,000 euros, recognizes their research into AI-assisted detection of leukaemia in the bone marrow.

Image: Image from a simulation of an electric field from the upper body and heart in the chest of a human; Copyright: arterioscope - TU Graz

Early detection: machine learning in cardiovascular diagnostics

Researchers at Graz University of Technology have developed a method for the early detection of cardiovascular diseases before symptoms occur. Using a machine learning model that analyzes electric fields, potential diseases can be precisely identified. This technology could improve diagnostics and reduce invasive interventions.

Image: A transparent, flexible electronic device wrapped around a fingertip featuring visible circuits and components printed on a thin, stretchable material; Copyright: Shichao Ding

Sweat-powered finger wrap enables continuous health monitoring

Engineers at the University of California San Diego have developed a sweat-powered finger wrap that monitors vital health biomarkers such as glucose, lactate, vitamin C, and levodopa. This wearable device utilizes sweat from the wearer’s fingertip for both power and health monitoring, making it a convenient and non-invasive tool for personalized health tracking.

Image: Two men standing next to each other, each holding a pair of VR glasses; Copyright: Rolf Müller/Universitätsklinikums Bonn (UKB)

VIRTOSHA: Training in surgery using VR technology

A research team from Bonn University Hospital, Cologne University of Applied Sciences and other partners is working on the VIRTOSHA project, which is developing a virtual reality training environment for surgical procedures.

Image: A gloved hand holds a syringe filled with a blood sample; Copyright: Chalmers University of Technology | Unsplash | Marco J Haenssgen

Better heart risk prediction with simple blood test

New research shows that two blood markers — apoB and lipoprotein(a) — could more accurately predict heart disease risk than cholesterol tests.

Image: A virus-like particle floats above a cell with double-stranded DNA protruding from it; Copyright: Dong-Jiunn Jeffery Truong

Smart delivery system for gene editors developed

ENVLPE improves delivery of CRISPR tools into cells, offering new treatment prospects for genetic disorders and cancer therapy.

Image: Two male researchers in white lab coats stand smiling in a biomedical laboratory; Copyright: Universidad de Barcelona

Lung cancer: Predicting response to ALK inhibitor therapy

Dynamic BH3 profiling may help forecast treatment success with ALK inhibitors in NSCLC, as shown in a University of Barcelona-led study.

Image: One hand holds a petri dish containing a transparent 3D printed hydrogel object; Copyright: Manisha Sonthalia

Cell-based 3D-printed skin aims to replace animal testing

TU Graz and VIT India develop 3D-printed skin with living cells to test nanoparticles without relying on animal testing.

Image: A surgeon removes nasal cartilage cells from a patient in the operating room; Copyright: University of Basel, Christian Flierl

Engineered nasal cartilage for knee injuries

A new method can be used to produce cartilage implants from cells of the nasal septum.

Image: A participant stands on a mat while a researcher monitors movement using a motion analysis system; Copyright: University of Missouri

AI assists in detecting cognitive impairment

Early detection of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) can facilitate timely intervention and potentially improve long-term health outcomes.

Image: Medical staff looking and analyzing images of human cells and tissue in a laboratory setting

Personalized cancer treatment: mini-tumors and digital twins

The “ISPOT-K” project is working on an approach for personalized cancer therapy based on organoids and digital twins.

Image: Two people wearing protective equipment look at an X-ray of the patient's brain, isolated on a dark gray background.

AI and nanopore sequencing for brain tumor diagnosis

A research team from Heidelberg University Hospital is working on making brain tumor classification faster and more accessible worldwide.

Image: Two scientists in white lab coats working with a multichannel pipette in a research laboratory; Copyright: OHSU/Christine Torres Hicks

Pancreatic cancer: New blood test improves early detection

A newly developed blood test could help doctors detect pancreatic cancer earlier, significantly improving survival rates.

Image: A depiction of a human heart with a hexagonal implant embedded in its surface, Copyright: umg/eva meyer-besting

Heart patch as potential treatment for heart failure

The treatment of severe heart failure could be given new possibilities through the use of heart patches made from stem cells.

Image: Three researchers in lab coats stand in front of laboratory equipment and a monitor with a microscopic image of a heart organoid; Copyright: Karin Kaiser/ MHH

Miniature hearts for medical research

Mini organs grown from stem cells could advance research into blood formation and cardiovascular diseases in the future.

Image: The image shows spherical blue cells with yellow DNA nanorobots depicted on their surface; Copyright: University of Stuttgart

DNA nanorobots change artificial cells

A "toolbox" enables the transport of large therapeutic molecules into artificial cells with the help of DNA nanorobots.

Image: Hands holding a testing kit for rapid viral testing with various diagnostic equipment lying on a table in the background

New diagnostic system for rapid viral testing

Researchers have developed a new diagnostic system, which allows for the rapid and simultaneous detection of SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A.

Image: The picture shows the researchers who have developed a method that makes the identification of genes involved in diseases easier; Copyright: Felix Heyder / University Hospital Bonn

New method for gene identification in medical research

Researchers at the University of Bonn and University Hospital Bonn (UKB) have developed a groundbreaking method for identifying genes involved in human diseases. This new approach, called Nuclear In-Situ Sequencing (NIS-Seq), simplifies and accelerates the process of uncovering genetic determinants in human cells.

Image: A man sits at a desk, pointing to a computer screen displaying a visual presentation about proton therapy; Copyright: Jefferson Lab photo/Lindsay Cunningham

Proton therapy as a safer cancer treatment alternative

Proton therapy, a form of cancer treatment using proton beams, could provide a safer alternative to therapies based on radioactive isotopes. A new study led by researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility aims to evaluate the feasibility of replacing traditional radiotherapy with proton therapy to minimize radiological risks.

Image: Small device for detecting colorectal and prostate cancer; Copyright: The University of Texas at El Paso

Low-cost biochip for rapid cancer detection developed at UTEP

A team at The University of Texas at El Paso, led by Dr. Xiujun Li, has developed a portable, low-cost device that detects colorectal and prostate cancer in under an hour. Designed for accessibility, this biochip could provide life-saving early detection for patients in rural and underserved areas.

Image: Researcher using a pipette to implant cells in a device in a laboratory setting: Copyright: J. Adam Fenster / University of Rochester

New tissue-on-chip technology to study viral neuroinflammation

A project, funded by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) with an initial $2.4 million grant, aims to model the lung-brain connection and develop new therapeutic drugs to prevent and treat neurological symptoms, such as brain fog, associated with viral infections.

Image: Monitors on a desk showing various kinds of data; Copyright: Anna Schroll/Leibniz-HKI

Investigating gut microbiome in tumor cachexia

The EU-funded "MiCCrobioTAckle" project is set to explore the role of the gut microbiome in cancer-related cachexia and develop new treatment strategies. Coordinated by the Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology (Leibniz-HKI), the project will also provide advanced training for 12 PhD candidates, shaping future leaders in microbiota medicine.

Image: Researcher using the new "acoustic pipette" for blood testing in a laboratory setting; Copyright: Patrick Campbell/CU Boulder

A faster, easier way to test blood at the bedside with handheld device

Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder are developing a handheld device that uses sound waves to detect biomarkers from a finger-prick of blood. It delivers highly sensitive results in under 70 minutes, providing a faster and more accessible alternative to traditional lab-based tests. The research was published in Science Advances.

Image: Woman smiling at the camera while holding point-of-care testing equipment in a laboratory setting; Copyright: Sylvester Cancer

Mouthwash test for predicting head and neck cancer recurrence

A study by researchers from Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, UC San Diego Health, and other collaborating centers suggests that a simple mouthwash-based test could help predict the recurrence of head and neck cancers.

Image: Colorful cell organoid of a retina with a yellow dot of DNA; Copyright: Cassian Afting, AG Wittbrodt

Controlling organoid development with the help of DNA microspheres

A research team from Heidelberg University and the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research has developed a new method of molecular engineering. This makes it possible to precisely control organoids and improve their complexity. With the help of DNA microspheres, growth factors can be released in a targeted manner to recreate tissue structures more realistically.

Image: A researcher in a pink lab coat works with a pipette while another scientist in a white lab coat supervises the process in a laboratory setting; Copyright: Gustavo Raskosky

Superhydrophobic device to model tumor progression

Rice University bioengineers have harnessed the lotus leaf's unique properties to create a cutting-edge platform for culturing cancer cell clusters. This system offers a new approach to studying tumor progression and metastasis, providing essential insights into cancer biology and treatment.

Image: Comparison of two tissue sections of a lung, on the left a traditional histological section in pink, on the right a digitized and color-coded tissue section; Copyright: Dr. Yuri Tolkach

AI-supported platform improves lung cancer diagnostics

A new AI-based digital platform, developed by a research team at the University Hospital of Cologne, enables rapid and precise analysis of lung cancer tissue sections. The platform, which is based on advanced algorithms, could significantly improve the quality of diagnostics and provide new insights into the treatment of lung cancer.

Image: Fluorescence microscopy image of a lab-grown "mini-gut" organoid, displaying intricate structures in blue and red; Copyright: Thomas Dennison/University of Cambridge

Lab-grown 'mini-guts' offer new insights for Crohn’s disease treatments

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed lab-grown "mini-guts" to better understand and treat Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting millions worldwide. These mini-guts, or organoids, mimic the gut lining's key functions and could pave the way for more personalized and effective treatments.

Image: A close-up of a tube for a tuberculosis test in the laboratory

New biomarker predicts side effects of tuberculosis therapy

Researchers at the Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, have discovered a biomarker that can predict the risk of nerve disease during tuberculosis therapy.

Image: An elderly man wears an exoskeleton on his arm and raises his hand with a smile; Copyright: Sabrina Bauer / TUM

Combination of electrical stimulation and exoskeleton

Researchers have developed a modular system that combines functional electrical stimulation (FES) with an exoskeleton. Initial tests are promising.

Image: Two scientists wearing lab coats and safety goggles operate a material testing machine in a laboratory; Copyright: University of Oregon

Implantable sensors provide insights into bone recovery

Advanced sensors could improve recovery outcomes for patients with severe bone injuries.

Image: Doctor and a patient wearing a neck brace practice muscle exercises for daily tasks, such as holding a smartphone; Copyright: Heidelberg University Hospital

Antibody treatment: rehabilitation after spinal cord injuries

Research into antibodies that promote nerve regeneration after spinal cord injuries has delivered promising results. A clinical study involving multiple European institutions revealed improved motor function in patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries. The findings were recently published in The Lancet Neurology.

Image: Person wears an exoskeleton for the leg that can support and relieve strain during movements.

Robotic shorts "WalkON" make walking easier and promote mobility

With “WalkON”, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) has developed robotic shorts that support people when walking and jogging by reducing the amount of energy required. The wearable technology, which can increase mobility and quality of life, is intended to benefit older people or people with health problems in particular.

Image: AI model of a hand to research motor manipulation; Copyright: EPFL / UNIGE

AI model enhances understanding of hand movements for neuroprosthetics

A research team led by EPFL Professor Alexander Mathis has developed an AI model that provides in-depth insights into hand movements, crucial for advancing neuroprosthetics and rehabilitation technologies.

Image: Picture showing how the foldable pouch actuators improve soft rehabilitation gloves; Copyright: Chiba University

New actuator improves finger extension in rehab gloves

Soft rehabilitation gloves have become essential tools in helping patients with hand function-related disabilities regain finger movement. Traditionally, these gloves use soft pneumatic actuators driven by air pressure to facilitate motion. However, most current soft actuators primarily assist in finger bending (flexion) but struggle with enabling finger straightening (extension).

Image: On the left, a man is sitting while wearing an exoskeleton. There is a woman talking to the man and trying to help him get up.

Mobile patient lifts enhance ICU patient recovery

Discovering new methods to enhance the recovery process for ventilated intensive care unit (ICU) patients is crucial in improving their overall outcomes. A recent study conducted in Tokyo, Japan, sheds light on the efficacy of early mobilization, supported by mobile patient lifts, in facilitating patient recovery.

Image: Biomechanical carbon hand prosthesis for disabled people on the table in the office, another white prosthesis in the background; Copyright: ionadidishvili

Hand prostheses: Artificial intelligence makes gripping more intuitive

A better understanding of muscle activity patterns in the forearm supports a more intuitive and natural control of artificial limbs. This requires a network of 128 sensors and artificial intelligence based techniques.

Image: Kim Peper (in the middle) stands on the GyroTrainer board. Elisabeth Jensen (front left) determines the individual stiffness, right: Jan Lang; Copyright: Andreas Heddergott / TUM

GyroTrainer with AI: Individual back training machine

The GyroTrainer is an intelligent training device that resembles a balance board. It uses artificial intelligence to adjust the difficulty level to the individual patient’s current ability.

Image: Prosthesis: 3D-printed plastics polylactic acid and thermoplastic polyurethane. Each finger contains four parts held together by plastic pins; Copyright: University of Houston

3D printable prostheses to restore amputees' finger mobility

A groundbreaking, easy-to-use 3D printable finger prosthesis created by a recent University of Houston graduate could offer amputees a low-cost solution to restore finger functionality.

Image: Close-up of a sensor bracelet demonstrator; Copyright: Fraunhofer IBMT

Bidirectional control of prosthetic hands using ultrasonic sensors

Researchers at Fraunhofer are working as part of an EU research project to improve control of prosthetic hands down to individual fingers.

Image: Young girl does movement exercises with a tension band; Copyright: University of Jyväskylä

Cerebral Palsy: multicomponent exercise improves physical functioning in children and young adults

A new study carried out at the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences at the University of Jyväskylä, Finland, found that an individually tailored exercise program improves motor function, muscle strength and joint mobility in children and young adults with CP.

Image: A woman sits on a prototype of an optimized office chair; Copyright: TU Dresden

Sensor and software to promote office staff’s physical activity

TU Dresden researchers have analyzed the mechanics of office chairs and developed a sensor that, in combination with a dedicated software, can in the future help employees move more and more consciously during office work.

Image: A device for monitoring arm movements, part of the post-stroke rehabilitation system; Copyright: KTU

AI-based system will help people after stroke

The joint study by Rytis Maskeliūnas, a researcher at Kaunas University of Technology, Faculty of Informatics (KTU IF), and Lithuanian researchers is focused on creating an artificial intelligence (AI)-based system that aims to facilitate the rehabilitation process.

Image: Patient wearing a prosthetic arm directly attached to the skeleton and neuromuscular system; Copyright: Chalmers University of Technology

Bionic hand: surgical and engineering innovations enable unprecedented control

For the first time, a person with an arm amputation can manipulate each finger of a bionic hand as if it was his own. Thanks to revolutionary surgical and engineering advancements that seamlessly merge humans with machines, this breakthrough offers new hope and possibilities for people with amputations worldwide.

Image: Patient and doctor are looking at and discussing the x-ray of a spine; Copyright: Pressmaster

AI supports rehabilitation after spinal cord injury

An intelligent suit is hoped to significantly improve rehabilitation after a serious spinal cord injury. The AI-supported solution will be developed over the next three years by researchers from Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) working in collaboration with Heidelberg University and Heidelberg University Hospital.

Image: A man walks in a garden with an ankle exo suit on his lower left leg; Copyright: Biodesign Lab / Harvard SEAS

Ankle exosuit: more independence for post-stroke wearers

Designed for independent use in community settings, the new exosuit could help stroke survivors improve their gait outside of the lab and during their daily routines.

Image: Two men and a woman pose with the BIXEPS device; Copyright: National University of Singapore

Weekly magnetic muscle therapy improves mobility and lean body mass in older adults

A decline in functional mobility, loss of muscle strength and an increase in body fats are often associated with ageing. This trend could potentially be reversed by way of an innovative magnetic muscle therapy pioneered by researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS).

Image: The carrier of the ARM2U team, Kyle Briggs, competing with the prosthesis at a Cybathlon 2023 event; Copyright: BarcelonaTech (UPC)

Low-cost robotic arm created by students as an alternative to conventional prostheses

A low-cost robotic arm created by students as an alternative to conventional prostheses: The ARM2u biomedical engineering team, from the UPC’s Barcelona School of Industrial Engineering (ETSEIB), is working on new functions for their low-cost 3D-printed transradial prosthesis.

Image: Elderly woman in physical rehabilitation with a dumbbell assisted by a physiotherapist; Copyright: bialasiewicz

Physical activity crucial for poststroke recovery

After a stroke, physical activity can be pivotal to successful recovery. People who spend four hours a week exercising after their stroke achieve better functional recovery within six months than those who do not, a University of Gothenburg study shows.

Image: ARC trial participant in active therapy: ARC Therapy is designed to deliver targeted, programmed spinal cord stimulation; Copyright: ONWARD Medical NV

Kick-off: new Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network "ReWIRE"

Through ReWIRE, next-generation scientists will be trained to develop translational breakthrough therapeutic solutions for patients with paralysis caused by traumatic spinal cord injuries.

Image: An insole is made on a 3D printer; Copyright: Marco Binelli / ETH Zürich

3D-printed insoles measure sole pressure directly in the shoe

Researchers at ETH Zurich, Empa and EPFL are developing a 3D-printed insole with integrated sensors that allows the pressure of the sole to be measured in the shoe and thus during any activity.

Image: Balance exercises outdoors. Mature woman standing on one leg exercising balance; Copyright: microgen

Poor balance may indicate changes in brain volume

In a study recently published in Gait & Posture, researchers from the University of Tsukuba have revealed that the volume of the hippocampus is correlated with a measure of balance ability in healthy older people.

Image: old man falls to the ground and touches his forehead; Copyright: LightFieldStudios

Balance ability predicts cognitive impairment

In a study recently published in BMC Geriatrics, researchers from the University of Tsukuba have revealed a new measure of physical balance that could help to identify individuals who are at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD).

$Image: X-ray of the hip with a hip fracture; Copyright: Booyabazooka$

Mechanical stimulation could be used to prevent falls and strengthen muscles

Mechanical vibrations could help improve our muscles and our balance control, according to research at Aston University. Researchers in the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences have examined the effect of stimulation on muscle spindles which ‘speak’ to the central nervous system to help keep us upright and walk straight.

Image: Compact medical plasma device "MobiPlas" with a blue housing and white base for mobile cold plasma application; Copyright: INP

Device "MobiPlas" designed for mobile medical use

Researchers have presented a portable plasma device called MobiPlas. It could open up new possibilities for outpatient wound treatment.

Image: Artistic representation of hydrogels in a mobius-ring formed through self-healing; Copyright: Margot Lepetit / Aalto University

Hydrogels that heal like human skin

Until now, artificial gels have only been able to mimic either the stiffness of skin or its self-healing capability – but not both.

Image: Picture of a water-powered, electronics-free dressing (WPED) for electrical stimulation of wounds; Copyright: Rajaram Kaveti

Electric bandage promotes faster healing of chronic wounds

Researchers from North Carolina State University and Columbia University have developed a cost-effective bandage that uses an electric field to accelerate the healing of chronic wounds. In animal tests, this electric bandage improved wound healing by 30 percent compared to conventional bandages.

Image: wearable bioelectronic system displayed on a finger in green gloves; Copyright: Wei Gao, California Institute of Technology

Smart bandages: Advancing chronic wound treatment

A team of researchers from the Keck School of Medicine of USC and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is developing advanced electronic bandages and other tools to improve the monitoring and healing of chronic wounds. These wearable bioelectronic systems, tested in animal models, have the potential to enhance wound care through controlled drug release and electrical stimulation.

Image: The image shows a hand with slight burn injuries

UGRSKIN: artificial skin as a game-changer in burn treatment

The University of Granada (UGR) has pioneered a solution for burn treatment with its artificial skin “UGRSKIN”. Developed by the Tissue Engineering Research Group, this advanced therapy medicinal product (ATMP) has improved the approach to treating severe burns, offering patients new hope and enhanced outcomes.

Image: In the middle of this excerpt of a graphic there is a human body, visualizing the function of the underwater bio-adhesive for healing inner wounds; Copyright: POSTECH

Tailored medical adhesives for personalized healing

POSTECH researchers led by Prof. Hyung Joon Cha, alongside colleagues, introduced groundbreaking personalized underwater bio-adhesive patches (CUBAP) derived from mussel adhesive proteins. This discovery, featured in Advanced Materials, improves biomedical adhesives, offering tailored internal healing solutions.

Image: Two women looking at a display of cells on a monitor; Copyright: University of Jyväskylä

Antiviral resin destroys COVID-19 from plastic surfaces

Researchers at the University of Jyväskylä in Finland are pioneering the development of antiviral surfaces to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases, particularly focusing on coronaviruses.

Image: Two people in a laboratory working with a nanoparticle paste and light. Copyright: Empa

Smart wound sealing with nanoparticles and light soldering

Empa researchers have pioneered a novel soldering process that employs nanoparticles and lasers to gently fuse tissue, ushering in a new era in wound closure.

Image: Plasma ignition of the plasma source used: The plasma is visible here in a so-called filamentous discharge in the form of small purple flashes; Copyright: RUB, Marquard

Sterilization: how bacteria defend themselves against plasmas

A research team headed by Professor Julia Bandow and Dr. Tim Dirks from the Chair for Applied Microbiology at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, showed that bacteria that overproduce the heat shock protein Hsp33 can withstand plasma treatment more effectively than others.

Image: inexpensive do-it-yourself (DIY) “Corsi-Rosenthal Box” air purifier; Copyright: UConn photo

EPA testing shows the power of D-I-Y air filters to trap viruses

There is a low-cost way for you to protect yourself and reduce your risk of respiratory diseases such as flu, RSV, and COVID-19. Build yourself a Corsi-Rosenthal box (CR box) in 30 minutes with just $60 worth of common hardware store supplies.

Image: Close-up of a boy with a healed minor cut after surgical tape stitches; Copyright: ellinnur

Biomaterials: toolbox for the development of bioadhesives

The team of Prof. Dr. Thomas Scheibel, Chair of Biomaterials at the University of Bayreuth, has compiled a current overview of the state of research on protein-based bioadhesives.

Image: dr Jasmina Gačanin poses for the camera in a hallway; Copyright: Max-Planck-Institut für Polymerforschung

Jasmina Gačanin investigates living biomaterials

Dr. Jasmina Gačanin, postdoctoral researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research in the department of Prof. Dr. Tanja Weil, has been appointed as a “Peretti-Schmucker Fellow”.

Image: Symbolic photo: It shows a used CytoSorb® cartridge; Copyright: Karin Kaiser / MHH

Adsorber in blood purification: widely used, no proven benefit

Many hospitals use the adsorber CytoSorb to purify the blood of seriously ill patients in order to trap inflammatory substances and prevent the life-threatening cytokine storm. MHH researchers have now found in a meta-study that the treatment does not reduce mortality and may even cause harm.

Image: A scientist in lab uniform inspects a smooth surface; Copyright: StreetOncamara_From_Twenty20

NOVA project: next generation of antimicrobial coating technologies

Researchers develop and test highly efficient, environmentally friendly and stable antimicrobial (antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal) coating technologies in the NOVA project.

Image: The hydrogel composite is demonstratively stretched by Alexandre Anthis; Copyright: Empa

Sensor patch for abdominal surgery

Researchers from Empa and ETH Zurich have developed a plaster with a sensor function to ensure that wounds in the abdomen remain tightly closed after an operation.

Image: Woman with glasses and gray-brown hair, Carole Planchette, stands by a pillar; Copyright: Fotogenia - Renate Trummer

Tissue Engineering: TU Graz revolutionises production of biocompatible microfibres

Using a newly developed method for the efficient and cost-effective production of biocompatible microfibres, the production of autologous skin and organs can be significantly accelerated. Responsible for the development are Carole Planchette and her team from TU Graz.

Image: The surface of a door handle is cleaned with disinfectant; Copyright: Ruhr-Universitaet-Bochum

Hygiene: monkeypox viruses relatively stable on surfaces

A study conducted by the Department of Molecular and Medical Virology at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, has shown that temperature is a major factor in this process: at room temperature, a monkeypox virus that is capable of replicating can survive on a stainless steel surface for up to eleven days, and at four degrees Celsius for up to a month.

Image: Prof. Dr. Thomas Scheibel and Vanessa Trossmann in a laboratory for the microscopic examination of cell structures; Copyright: UBT / Chr. Wißler.

Regenerative medicine: cell-specific properties of novel spider silk materials

Materials made of spider silk can be specifically modified or processed in such a way that living cells of a certain type adhere to them, grow and proliferate. This has been discovered by researchers at the University of Bayreuth under the direction of Prof. Dr. Thomas Scheibel.

Image: Daniel Aili, professor at the Department of Physics, man with brown hair and glasses, smiles at the camera; Copyright: Magnus Johansson

Wound dressing reveals infection

A nanocellulose wound dressing that can reveal early signs of infection without interfering with the healing process has been developed by researchers at Linköping University, Sweden.

Image: A smart bandage rests on a gloved finger.; Copyright: Caltech

‘Smart’ bandages monitor wounds and provide targeted treatment

Most of the time, when someone gets a cut, scrape, burn, or other wound, the body takes care of itself and heals on its own. But this is not always the case. Diabetes can interfere with the healing process and create wounds that will not go away and that could become infected and fester.

Image: Newborn baby lies on his stomach in an incubator; Copyright: mvaligursky

Incubators: method to reduce alcohol absorbed from disinfectants used

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba showed the association between the concentration of evaporated alcohol from alcohol-based disinfectants used for incubators and the amount of alcohol absorbed by premature infants.

Image: Pipette adding sample to stem cell cultures growing in pots for stem cell implantation; Copyright: imagesourcecurated

Electrodes grown in the brain – paving the way for future therapies for neurological disorders

The boundaries between biology and technology are becoming blurred. Researchers at Linköping, Lund, and Gothenburg universities in Sweden have successfully grown electrodes in living tissue using the body’s molecules as triggers. The result, published in the journal Science, paves the way for the formation of fully integrated electronic circuits in living organisms.

Image: Xing Xie is holding holding a chip in close up; Copyright: Georgia Tech

New ultrafast water disinfection method is more environmentally friendly

Georgia Institute of Technology researchers have found a way to use small shocks of electricity to disinfect water, reducing energy consumption, cost, and environmental impact.

Image: A man in a white coat and with safety goggles, Hongji Yan, holds a test tube in his hand and is looking at the camera; Copyright: Vaibhav Srivastava

Mucus-based gel improves bone graft results, promotes healing

Molecules from mucus can be used to produce synthetic bone graft material and help with the healing of larger bone loss, a new study found.

Image: A white electrospun Renacer membrane (5 x 5 cm) on a black background; Copyright: Fraunhofer ISC

Bioresorbable membrane for healing internal and external wounds

Fraunhofer researchers have succeeded in using the bioresorbable silica gel Renacer to produce an electrospun membrane that is neither cytotoxic to cells nor genotoxic.

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