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Purpose of Research

It is an essential task to develop the results of nanotechnology / materials, which is one of the four priority fields of National Basic Plans of Science and Technology to open up new areas of integration in various fields and an aim for the next super smart society. Research representatives have generated magnetic nanoparticles of several nanometers using a unique manufacturing method and have reported on their quantum mechanical physical phenomena in detail. In addition, while attempting to apply this concept to the biotechnology field in recent years, we made the important discovery that this particle has an ionization support function (Achievement 2). Through the continued advancement of this research, it may eventually be possible to analyze a wide range of molecules ranging from small molecules to macromolecules through mass spectrometry with high resolution. We expect that this will allow for unprecedented analysis of specimens. Furthermore, since the particles are nanosized, it has been suggested that high-resolution molecular imaging is possible without losing visual information (Anal. Chem. 2008).

　In this research, we propose to treat cancer using magnetic nanoparticles while also advancing the application of this method in the field of pathological diagnosis. Furthermore, by applying superconductor devices, we will also develop analytical devices through process control by combining technologies such as nanomaterial processing and cell signal amplification. By fusing the element technologies of participating members, we will contribute to the development of medical technology based on fundamental physics and engineering, as well as life sciences.

Research content / methods

Features

① Demonstrate the effectiveness of cancer hyperthermia using magnetic nanoparticles .

② Analyze the magnetic, electrical, conductivity, and optical properties of samples in detail and investigate their relationship with the excitation mechanism during ionization by laser desorption.

③ Analyze substances on the surface and inside of cells using lasers and Raman spectra.

④ Utilize the performance of the mass spectrometer introduced in our university and perform analysis and imaging of cell slices, based on the estimation request made.

⑤ Functionalize into fine magnetic particles using our unique manufacturing method accumulated by laboratory members in order to create materials that can be applied to the biotechnology field.

Future plans

① Elucidate the mechanism of ionization, which had been unknown until now.

② Develop magnetic nanoparticles with excellent ionization assist function and propose a breakthrough diagnostic method to image the differentiation process in the living body over time. We will then contribute to following the process of the pathological mechanism.

③ Develop a multiferroic material with the synergistic effect of electricity and magnetism and aim to realize a non-contact signal pickup system using a device embedded in the body and a quantum device.

④ Demonstrate the usefulness of magnetic hyperthermia.