A groundbreaking project led by researchers in Dresden aims to bring cutting-edge quantum sensor technology to the operating room.
Supported by a €5m EU grant over four years, this initiative combines quantum computing expertise with real-time imaging solutions to revolutionise tumour removal procedures.
By enhancing precision during surgery, this innovative quantum sensor technology promises to improve outcomes for cancer patients worldwide.
The PoQus project, as it is called, brings together top research institutions and industry leaders. Collaborators include the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), the University Hospital Dresden (UKD), and the National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT/UCC).
International partners, such as Dutch quantum technology company Single Quantum and French cryogenic specialists Absolut System SAS, contribute critical expertise in sensor development and cryogenic engineering.
Leading the German research team are Professor Oliver Bruns, head of Functional Imaging at NCT/UCC Dresden, Dr Andriy Chmyrov, an applied mathematician, and Professor Tareq Juratli, Deputy Director of Neurosurgery at UKD and Head of the Neurooncology Center at NCT/UCC.
The EU’s Horizon Europe programme, which supports global challenges and industrial competitiveness, has allocated nearly €5m to PoQus.
This funding will drive research and development, with significant portions designated for the Faculty of Medicine at TU Dresden and the Dresden branch of DKFZ. These investments bolster Dresden’s position as a leader in medical innovation and quantum technology.
From quantum computing to operating rooms
The project focuses on repurposing quantum sensors – specifically superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors – for clinical use.
These highly sensitive sensors, traditionally used in quantum communication and computing, will be integrated into a specialised time-resolved fluorescence microscope.
This combination enables unprecedented accuracy in detecting malignant tissues during neurosurgery, allowing surgeons to remove as much of a tumour as possible while sparing healthy tissue.
The goal is clear: to provide surgeons with real-time, high-resolution imaging that can penetrate deeper tissue layers.
This ensures more precise tumour identification and reduces the likelihood of leaving cancerous cells behind, directly benefiting patient care.
How the quantum sensor works
The success of this quantum sensor system relies on two advanced technologies:
- Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy (FLIM): FLIM detects differences in the lifespan of fluorescent molecules within tissue. This allows it to distinguish between healthy and cancerous cells based on their unique microenvironments.
- Superconducting Nanowire Single-Photon Detectors (SNSPDs): SNSPDs offer ultra-high time resolution and deep tissue penetration, which are critical for real-time imaging. However, their use in clinical settings has been limited due to the need for bulky cooling systems.
The Dresden-led consortium’s solution is to develop a portable quantum sensor system that combines these two technologies.
A compact cryogenic cooling system, optimised SNSPD detectors, and advanced image analysis software will make the technology suitable for use in operating theatres.
The researchers emphasised the transformative potential of the technology: “The use of this new technology can open up completely new prospects for our research in imaging and in neurosurgery.
“Integrating quantum sensors in neurosurgery promises to revolutionise tumour operations through highly precise, real-time imaging.
“This technology enables more reliable detection of malignant cells while sparing healthy tissue, which has direct benefits for patient care.”
Transforming neurosurgery for the future
Quantum sensors have long been at the cutting edge of quantum communication and computing. Now, thanks to this innovative project, these advanced tools are poised to make a transformative impact on neurosurgery.
By enabling surgeons to see and analyse tissues in real-time with unmatched precision, this technology marks a major leap forward in cancer care.
The development of a portable quantum sensor system could soon become a standard in operating rooms, offering new hope for patients and setting a new benchmark for precision surgery.
This is not just a scientific breakthrough but a potential revolution in how tumours are treated – one where technology and medicine converge to save lives.
