All articles by Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Unlocking synthetic cells
From a research perspective, synthetic cells are irresistible. Some scientists look at them to better understand life itself; others so that life may be helped. And with new claims of a ‘world-first breakthrough’ from the University of Carolina around how human-made cells are used in medical applications, could their star yet rise still further? Dan Cave speaks to Dr Petra Schwille, director at the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry and steering committee member at SynCellEU, to find out more about how these cells work, ethical dilemmas around their use – and whether touted medical breakthroughs are imminent.
Inspired by nature
The bio-inspired and biomimetic medical market is predicted to grow at a fast rate over the next decade. But where exactly is the focus — and what is driving research and application in this dynamic area? With a new mussel-inspired medical coating making headlines, due to its effective antimicrobial properties, Dan Cave speaks to Salvio Suárez-Garcia, a researcher at the Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, and Professor Marc-Olivier Coppens, vice dean at the UCL Centre for Nature Inspired Engineering, to fi nd out more about bio-inspiration and real-world application.
AI and the future of material discovery
What if, rather than depending on trial and error, luck and serendipity in their search for new materials, scientists could instead employ powerful algorithms to discover them faster and more intentionally? Andrea Valentino reports on the work researchers at Google DeepMind are carrying out in this field.
The 5G future
Technological advancements are radically changing how surgeons can conduct surgeries remotely in new and exciting ways. They also have the potential to free up staff time – and slash waiting lists for treatments. But can 5G connectivity keep up to deliver this new world of medicine, and what is still needed to unlock these new opportunities? Lauren Hurrell talks to Mischa Dohler, VP of emerging technology at Ericsson, to learn more.
Dial up the volume
Dialysis has traditionally relied on so-called high-flux hemodialysis technology, which uses diffusion to remove small molecules from the blood. Yet this approach is far from perfect, not least around the quality of fluid required. Over recent times, however, researchers have been experimenting with something called high-volume haemodiafiltration. Incorporating both diffusion and convection techniques, it promises to eliminate larger molecules from the blood, and effectively manage fluid replacement. Monica Karpinski investigates, talking to experts across the sector.
A new dimension in 3D printing
3D printing is now everywhere in medical manufacturing. That’s hardly surprising: from cranial implants to surgical instruments, it can offer vast benefits to patients. At the same time, researchers are perfecting additive manufacturing machines themselves. An excellent new example is so-called VIPS-3DP technology, which allows manufacturers to craft devices of remarkable lightness. Even better, it’s cheaper than older 3D printing methods – and more sustainable. Abi Millar speaks to Professor Yong Huang of the University of Florida, who developed the technique, to learn more.
Enhanced manufacturing
Augmented reality is gaining ground in healthcare – but OEMs are discovering it’s equally useful on the manufacturing shop floor. From mitigating human error to enhancing training delivery, should we expect these technologies to dominate medical factories over the years ahead? Lauren Hurrell talks to Dr John Ahmet Erkoyuncu, a professor in digital engineering at Cranfield University, and Dr Kavin Andi, a consultant maxillofacial head and neck surgeon at St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, to discuss the unique learnings gleaned from AR in healthcare – and its potential impact in transforming medical manufacturing.
Implantable tech takes big strides
From hearing aids to cardiovascular support, implantable electronic systems are transforming healthcare. Yet if the sector wants to maximise its growth potential, it must overcome many technical challenges – not least the design of power supply units, especially with remarkable new developments on the horizon, including batteries that can run on the body’s own oxygen supplies. Jim Banks looks ahead at what the future might hold.
Navigating the new AI Act
AI is transforming medical life – and devices are no exception. Yet if machine learning is proving revolutionary from remote surgery to diagnostics, the regulators are rushing in too. One obvious example is the EU AI Act, which entered into force in August. Vladimir Murovec and Will James at Osborne Clarke, and Alexander Olbrechts at MedTech Europe, tell Abi Millar how the new rules are likely to affect the industry.
Manufacturing Class III devices
Class III contract manufacturing is soaring. Encompassing the most complex medical devices – for instance, pacemakers and deep-brain stimulators – research suggests they will enjoy the highest CAGR of any class through the end of the decade. But beyond the potential advantages to contract manufacturing organisations (CMOs), and indeed the patients who rely on these machines, what must companies do to ensure they can build Class III devices effectively? Phoebe Galbraith investigates, with help from a range of experts.