Ultrasound system solves the ‘unsticking problem’ in biomedical research

In a breakthrough for biomedical research, Impulsonics has developed an ultrasound system that addresses the "unsticking problem" faced by scientists working with living cells. Co-founder and CEO Luke Cox describes the technology as providing "surround sound" for biological cells, a metaphor that captures the innovative approach to freeing and manipulating cells without altering their biological properties.

The "unsticking problem" arises when cells grown in a petri dish tend to cling together, creating a barrier to scientific research and the development of new medical treatments. Traditional methods for unsticking cells often involve chemical processes that can change the cells' properties, leading to inconsistent research results. Impulsonics' ultrasound system offers a non-invasive alternative, using an array of ultrasound transducers to focus sound and gently separate or manipulate cells.

Cox, who co-founded Impulsonics in 2023 after spinning out from the University of Bristol, explains that the ultrasound technology is particularly useful for researchers studying cell behavior, tissue engineering, and drug discovery. By avoiding chemical interventions, the system ensures that cellular responses remain accurate, providing more reliable data for scientific studies and therapeutic development.

The development of this ultrasound system is not just a technological achievement but also a testament to Cox's career trajectory, which took him from a PhD student to the CEO of a groundbreaking biomedical company. In a recent episode of the Physics World Weekly podcast, Cox discussed his journey and the opportunities available for physicists in the burgeoning biomedical industry.

The podcast also explored the broader implications of this innovation. Cox highlighted the potential of ultrasound technology to revolutionize cell culture practices and improve the efficiency of laboratory workflows. Additionally, the discussion touched upon related research in the field, such as Bruce Drinkwater's work on holographic acoustic tweezers, which could enable the creation of 3D cellular displays.

Impulsonics' ultrasound system not only solves the "unsticking problem" but also opens new avenues for biomedical research. By providing a non-invasive method to manipulate cells, the technology ensures that scientific findings remain true to the natural behavior of living organisms. This advancement not only benefits researchers but also holds promise for the development of more effective medical treatments and a deeper understanding of cellular processes.

As the biomedical industry continues to evolve, the integration of physics-based solutions into biological research becomes increasingly important. Innovations like Impulsonics' ultrasound system demonstrate the potential of interdisciplinary approaches to tackle complex scientific challenges and drive progress in medicine and healthcare.