Developing new methods for detecting tumors using light and image processing

The Tsukada Laboratory is using laser technology and fluorescence scattering measurement to research bio-instrumentation at the molecular level in cells.

Q. "The way organisms function is very intricate; the first time I observed the circulation of blood under a microscope, it was so beautiful, I was really impressed. I think that was what got me interested in this field. I thought it would be interesting to investigate what makes up these mechanisms in the body, using technology to look at each one. I think such research may help us understand the mechanisms behind cancers that are currently hard to treat."

Each organ, such as the brain or liver, has different structures and patterns of blood vessels. The Tsukada Lab does experiments based on theoretical predictions. For example, the researchers use fluorescence to measure blood flow in tissue at the microscopic level, so they can quantitatively measure how the oxygen transported through circulation is metabolized, and verifies the effectiveness of the method.

Q. "In an engineering experiment, things have to go according to theory. But in a medical experiment, things often dont go as expected. This is because each individual person is different, which causes discrepancies among the results. So its necessary to take some time and do the experiments slowly."

The Tsukada Lab does joint research with the Faculty of Medicine on the Shinanomachi Campus, and with medical research institutes outside the University. In the near future, practical applications of this research will lead to faster detection and treatment of cancer, helping people to lead healthier lives. The Tsukada Lab will continue its work from the uniquely broad perspective given by this field of biomedical engineering.

Q. "I think the best thing is when new technologies come into general use and are helpful in diagnosis before people realize it. Before people even notice, the number of items in health checks will increase, so for example, when you give blood, you can be informed that Theres a slight suspicion that you may have cancer. I think it would be great if such technologies could be used naturally to help make sure that cancer gets detected early."

Category:

Science & Technology

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• Keio
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