Surfix is a partner in the PHOBICCS project, working on the development of a photonic biosensor for the improved early detection of bowel oedema. In the YOLOFITIS project, the company’s focus is a cortisol measuring system. The purpose of this is to monitor adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease), which can also occur as a side-effect of cancer immunotherapy. Anke Schütz-Trilling commented: “Proteins and metabolites show what’s actually going on in the body.”

Quantum microscopy in cancer diagnostics: sharpening the vision with twin photons
In “Quantum microscopy for cancer diagnosis”, Dr. Valerio Gili from Fraunhofer IOF explained the quantum microscopy’s potentials for oncology. He stated that quantum effects in imaging enhance resolution, improve the signal-to-noise ratio, enable imaging in the near-infrared range and can even be applied in poor lighting. Fraunhofer IOF is currently researching a method of non-linear interferometry using twin photons. This allows the imaging of objects that have never directly interacted with photons. The institute aims to develop the currently experimental set-up into a tenable system, as it pursues its long-term goal of integrated quantum imaging systems. Dr. Gili emphasized: “Quantum photonics can deliver added value for cancer diagnostics.”
Animal experiments replaced by high-tech vascularized organoids
The focus of Samantha Paoletti, from CSEM, in “Innovative technologies for personalized cancer care: Advancing detection and treatment” was on the automation and standardization of work with tumor organoids. These can be used as a pre-clinical test system for active substances. She pointed out the high costs of pharmaceutical development and explained that animal models are never able to accurately depict the reactions of the human organism – which is one reason for the failure of numerous active substance developments. “Tumor organoids can be an extremely informative instrument in pharmaceutical research,” reported Samantha Paoletti. CSEM has developed a microplate which stimulates the vascularization of organoids through a continuous, directed flow of media, thus enabling patient-specific models with immune and vascular components. This technology is intended to improve the informative value of in-vitro tests and increase the efficiency of active substance development.

Following on from the six talks, Dr. Jens Ebnet summed up the significance of these individual developments for cancer diagnostics and treatment: “It’s about joining the dots and improving patient safety as well as treatment.” It became apparent that interdisciplinary approaches in microtechnology, photonics, quantum physics and biotechnology are crucial for optimizing the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and thus increasing survival rates among cancer patients. Therefore, the central focus also lies on the competence of the medical technology industry’s supply sector – an innovative sector that will again present itself and its developments at COMPAMED 2025.

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