Sensing at the Quantum Limit: The NV Diamond Platform
Our foundational quantum technology platform, designed to detect and measure critical biological processes like cellular toxicity in real-time.
Quantum Biosciences is developing a biomedical sensing platform based on nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in nanodiamonds. This technology uses the principles of quantum mechanics to create sensitive, non-invasive tools for observing and measuring biological processes at the molecular level, with goals for real-time health monitoring and early disease diagnosis
The Need for Greater Sensitivity and Precision in Healthcare
Conventional sensing technologies often face limitations in sensitivity and can require invasive procedures, which may lead to delayed diagnoses and reactive, generalized treatments. Capturing these fleeting, low-concentration biological signals without disrupting the system is a significant challenge for classical methods. Many of these critical processes, like the early signs of cellular stress or the real-time effects of a new drug, occur at a scale and speed that are difficult to measure accurately. This creates a clear need for new sensing modalities capable of providing earlier and more precise information about biological states at the molecular level.
Our Quantum-Powered Approach to Biomedical Sensing
Our platform is built upon a remarkable atomic-scale system: the Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) center, a specific point-defect within a diamond's crystal lattice. This tiny quantum system acts as a powerful and robust sensor.
The process works by using lasers to read the quantum spin state of the NV center. This spin state is exceptionally sensitive to its immediate surroundings. When subtle local environmental factors—like magnetic fields, electric fields, or temperature—change, the NV center's spin state changes in response. By precisely measuring these changes optically, we can deduce information about the biological environment with incredible accuracy.
By embedding these NV centers in biocompatible nanodiamonds, we can create stable, non-toxic probes that can operate in complex biological settings, from cell cultures to potentially in-vivo systems.
The Quantum Advantage: Key Properties and Benefits
Benefit 1: Quantum-Level Sensitivity
NV centers are sensitive enough to detect the magnetic fields of single molecules or subtle temperature shifts within a cell, enabling measurements that were previously impossible.
Benefit 2: Biocompatibility & Stability
Nanodiamonds are chemically inert, non-toxic, and incredibly stable, making them ideal for long-term sensing applications within sensitive biological environments.
Benefit 3: Real-Time, In-Situ Monitoring
The optical readout mechanism allows for continuous, real-time data collection, enabling the study of dynamic processes as they happen, rather than relying on endpoint assays.
Benefit 4: Versatility
Beyond magnetic fields, our platform can be adapted to sense a range of parameters, including temperature, strain, and specific biomarkers, making it a versatile tool for diverse research applications.
A Powerful Application: Monitoring Cellular Health in Real Time
A key application we are exploring is the real-time, non-invasive monitoring of cellular stress and toxicity. For example, by detecting changes in the concentration of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)—a key indicator of radiation-induced cellular damage—our sensors could provide immediate feedback on the efficacy of cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. This capability has the potential to guide adaptive treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes by providing a direct window into cellular response.
Advancing Quantum Sensing Through Global Partnerships
This cutting-edge research is powered by collaboration with leading experts and institutions. We are proud to partner with:
- The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), CeNSE Group: For fundamental experimental research and sensor material science.
- MIT Vishwaprayag University, India: For collaboration on sensor design and application development.
We are actively expanding our collaborative network and are pursuing partnerships with esteemed researchers and institutions and exploring avenues to build a world-class R&D ecosystem.
Our vision for this platform is twofold: to serve as a powerful tool for fundamental biological research and to provide a critical feedback mechanism for advanced therapeutic systems.
From Foundational Research to a Versatile Platform
Our Quantum Sensing Platform is currently in the active research phase. We are focused on foundational experiments and refining our technology to support robust grant proposals. Our ultimate vision is to develop a versatile platform technology that can be adapted for a wide range of diagnostic and research applications, becoming an essential tool for the future of bioscience.
Partner with Us in Quantum Biomedical Innovation
Are you a researcher, clinician, or organization passionate about leveraging quantum technology to solve critical challenges in healthcare and biosciences? We invite you to connect with us to explore potential collaborations, discuss research opportunities, or learn more about our pioneering work.