Quantum technology is poised to revolutionize life sciences, offering unprecedented precision in medical research and treatment. Martin Bergö, a leading figure in this transformative field, emphasizes the importance of leveraging these advancements responsibly. “We owe it to humankind to use this technology,” he asserts, highlighting the potential benefits for healthcare.
According to Bergö, two primary bottlenecks in life science are measurements and calculations. Quantum techniques, though not universally applicable, can significantly enhance these areas. Ebba Carbonnier, head of the Swedish Quantum Life Science Centre, concurs, stating, “We have to learn how quantum technology can solve problems in our fields and conduct research and development to make sure that the discoveries we make ultimately benefit patients.”
Understanding Quantum Mechanics
Quantum mechanics, the study of the smallest building blocks of matter like atoms and electrons, underpins the development of quantum technology. This field has already experienced two major revolutions. The first laid the groundwork for technologies such as mobile telephony and GPS. The second wave is now focusing on life sciences, promising to enhance various medical applications.
Faster Parallel Calculations
Traditional computers use bits to store data, each bit representing a one or a zero. In contrast, quantum computers use qubits, capable of being both one and zero simultaneously. This characteristic allows quantum computers to perform many calculations in parallel, significantly speeding up processes like optimization. For specific tasks, they can outperform modern computers, offering faster solutions.
Quantum technology encompasses four main areas: quantum sensors, quantum simulation, quantum communication, and quantum computing. Carbonnier notes that quantum sensors have made the most significant strides in health and life sciences, providing superior resolution in time and space compared to current imaging techniques.
“By combining an optically pumped magnetometer (OPM) with magnetoencephalography (MEG), researchers can perform non-invasive measurements of weak magnetic fields, allowing all brain activity to be read 5,000 times a second,” explains Carbonnier.
Innovations in Medical Imaging and Treatment
One practical application of this technology is in identifying the origin of epileptic episodes in the brain, enabling surgeons to remove affected areas without harming surrounding tissue. Another promising area is stroke treatment. Carbonnier describes an apparatus under development that combines ultrasound with lasers and a “quantum filter” to localize blockages in cerebral blood vessels in real-time.
Quantum sensor research is also exploring diabetes treatment by inserting insulin-producing cells into the eye’s anterior chamber. The eye’s less aggressive immune response makes it an ideal site for such experiments. This research aims to study cell function and survival and ultimately treat diabetes patients.
“We expect the quantum microscope to give research scientists much better sensitivity in their observations,” Carbonnier adds.
Advancements in Neurodegenerative Disease Research
Quantum computers, although trailing behind sensors in development, hold promise for understanding protein folding in diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Misfolded proteins can lead to neuron death, but increased computational power could improve our understanding of these processes and potentially prevent them.
Quantum computing also offers potential in cancer care, where optimizing radiation therapy parameters could enhance treatment efficacy and reduce side effects. Professor Bergö highlights clinical study design as another area where quantum technology can improve outcomes by optimizing trial parameters.
Ensuring Data Security and Overcoming Challenges
Data security is another critical area, as future quantum computers might crack current encryption methods. Carbonnier warns of “harvest now and decrypt later” operations by hostile entities, emphasizing the need for quantum-proof encryption to protect sensitive health data.
Despite the promise, challenges remain. Quantum computers are sensitive to interference and require stable, cooled environments. Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential but time-consuming, as physicists and doctors must understand each other’s fields to develop practical solutions.
“National cooperation is essential in Sweden, since research and quantum technology demand so much by way of resources,” says Bergö.
International Collaboration and Future Prospects
Collaboration extends beyond national borders, with Nordic countries working together on quantum technologies in health and life sciences. The Nordic Quantum Life Science Round Table, hosted by Karolinska Institutet, exemplifies this cooperation.
Carbonnier emphasizes the ultimate goal: “It’s all about faster and more precise diagnoses that allow more targeted treatment. We’re striving for greater precision and individually tailored healthcare.”
As quantum technology continues to evolve, its integration into life sciences promises to enhance patient care significantly. Bergö underscores the importance of staying ahead of the curve, ensuring that once established, these advances benefit patients worldwide.
