The main focus is to develop AI analysis technology for analyzing diagnostic data based on microscopy and spectroscopy for pathology specimens, etc. For example, a pathological specimen is usually judged by the shape of the specimen based on microscopy, but doctors are not always able to make clear judgments. If an AI analysis technology can be established to solve such ambiguity, the technology is expected to be a strong ally of doctors. In this project, we aim to establish a new diagnostic technology using AI technology in collaboration with medical experts.

This project focuses on the development and support of therapeutic methods utilizing optical manipulation of cells, viruses, proteins, and polymers. Material development techniques are the essence of the development of such therapeutic methods. Today, viruses, proteins, and even cellular debris (extracellular vesicles) are targets for material development as drugs. Furthermore, polymers are often used as support materials for surgery, capsule materials for transporting drugs, and threads for surgical sutures. In this project, we encourage research collaborations to explore new possibilities for medical materials by using light manipulation and AI-based material synthesis.

This project focuses on the development and application of optical devices related to brain science and optogenetics. Although plants are known to grow in response to light and produce energy through photosynthesis, animals also respond to light stimuli, except for vision, which has become a hot topic in recent years. Many researchers at NAIST are involved in this field of research. In this project, we encourage collaborative research to develop technologies that utilize the light responses of animals, such as optogenetics. In addition, we aim to establish healthcare technologies by integrating these technologies with optical devices and AI technologies.

This project encourages collaborative medical-engineering research with new insights outside the core projects. MLC supports such research activities, mainly by young researchers, in collaboration with medical, dental and pharmaceutical researchers to cultivate medilux research in the next generation.

This division establishes an industry-academia collaboration consortium to link NAIST with medical universities and companies in Nara and other areas. Through the consortium, MLC identifies needs and seeds in medical and engineering technology from the point of view of medilux, accumulates knowledge and promotes research and development. In addition, the division will prepare interdisciplinary meetings, seminars for company members, and support for industry-academia cooperation, and establish a system as the functions of a regional hub for medical-engineering cooperation shining light.