Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have invented a TeraHertz-ray, or T-ray, laser that uses nanostructures based on semiconductors with special properties. The new device will provide 400 times higher gain than THz quantum cascade lasers — the only functional T-ray technology — allowing practical use of T-ray-based cameras and spectrometers for security and medical imaging. T-rays are electromagnetic waves with a shorter wavelength than microwaves but longer than infrared. They’re attractive for imaging applications because they can penetrate substances ranging from clothing to walls, they are harmless, and they can detect various chemicals — especially explosives. Despite these advantages, T-rays are rarely used due to the scarcity of T-ray emitters that are capable of generating powerful, coherent, and adjustable TeraHertz waves. The Hebrew U invention overcomes these limitations, says Yaacov Michlin, CEO of Yissum Research Development Company, the university’s TTO.
In another development, Yissum also signed a long-term multi-project research and license collaboration with pharmaceutical giant Roche of Basel, Switzerland. According to the agreement, Roche has selected six promising research projects in the fields of stem cells, biomarkers, and novel molecules for the treatment of metabolic diseases. Each collaborative research project is one to three years in duration. Roche will have exclusive license to commercialize the results in return for the payment of transfer fees, milestone payments, and royalties. The projects include a new pathway and strategies to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity; technologies to minimize the risk of tumor development and decrease the risk of immunogenic rejection when using stem cells to treat human disease; technologies to convert embryonic and induced stem cells into liver cells; identification of new biomarkers for progressive stages of vascular complications, such as ischemic heart disease; new methods to differentiate stem cells into beta cell lineages for organ transplants using proprietary scaffolds; and the use of cannabinoids to treat type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Sources: Reuters and PharmaLive