Valorising magnetometry in cells

Introduction

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR or ESR) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are widely used. However, magnetic resonance signals are low in energy and thus difficult to detect. These techniques are expensive and typically only offer millimeter down to micrometer resolution.

Diamond Magnetometry

Diamond magnetometry potentially offers a solution. The technique is based on a quantum effect and allows even the detection of single electron spins. While the technique has been used for a few years in physics, during my ERC project, this powerful tool was utilized for the first time to measure metabolic activity in living cells.

Project Aim

The aim of this project is to explore the commercial potential of these results and, if it is deemed feasible, found a start-up company for exploitation.

Application Focus

As a first application, we will investigate free radical generation. These molecules play a key role in many biological processes, including:

1. Cell communication
2. Immune responses
3. Ageing

Additionally, they are an indicator of stress and thus play a role in many diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, or viral and bacterial infections.

Challenges with Free Radicals

Despite their relevance and the fact that free radical generation is often an early sign of disease, they are rarely used as biomarkers since they are notoriously difficult to measure.

Prototype Development

In this project, we will build a prototype (to be patented) that can be used for demonstrations to customers. This will be done in close collaboration with a user committee in order to meet customer expectations.

Demonstration and Business Model

To demonstrate the usefulness to customers for diagnosis, we will conduct test measurements. Further, we will assess whether a business model based on a product, based on services, or a hybrid business model containing both is most promising.