Oct 9, 2020
It all starts with an explosion.
Imaging tech's latest advancement involves nanodiamond particles
created from a shockwave's pressure and temperature. Scientists are
finding ways to put these tiny formations to use as sensors inside
cells.
Listen to Dr. Takuya Segawa describe this exciting new step in
particles physics and learn
Dr. Takuya F. Segawa is the
Branco Weiss Fellow of the Society in Science in the ETH Zurich
Laboratory for Solid State Physics. He is charged with finding
better ways to investigate biomolecules inside cells. This led him
to connect with a group in Japan that works with nanodiamonds. Why
do scientists need a different way into cells?
Dr. Segawa answers with a cogent explanation of the limits of
magnetic resonance spectroscopy physics and how MRI machines work.
The gist is that they lack sensitivity to give scientists the best
information. He explains that this new nanodiamond won't
necessarily replace clinical MRI diagnostics, but it has tremendous
potential to make a difference in lab work.
Here's how it works: about 25
years ago, a German scientist discovered that a crystal structure
with a specific defect, a missing carbon atom, causes an electron
spin and produces fluorescent light. Further study showed that
manipulating the spin enables different light frequency emissions
and leads to a fine-tuned sensitivity. Scientists then put this
same defect in a nanodiamond, enabling a nanoparticle that can be
used like an MRI system but with increased sensitivity.
In addition, the magnetic resonance signal changes if it's met with
a magnetic field. Therefore, two signals can split and provide
information on temperature and position by using the orientation of
this magnetic field in relation to the nanodiamond. He explains how
scientists might use this amazing technique in lab work and how
close the industry is to gaining larger production needs.
Available on Apple Podcasts: apple.co/2Os0myK