Researchers at the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) are using ovarian cancer-on-a-chip models with a newly installed POLARIS system to study cancer metabolism in real time. With two POLARIS systems now installed at IBEC and the University of Antwerp, the Q-AID consortium aligned research protocols and discussed data analysis tools. The project received very positive feedback from the European Commission during the first reporting period, which highlighted Q-AID as a flagship project under the Quantum Europe Strategy.
Q-AID Consortium Launches Metabolic MRI Studies with POLARIS Systems
IBEC’s ovarian cancer-on-a-chip models are now integrated with a POLARIS system, enabling real-time study of tumor metabolism as part of the Q-AID project. This approach allows researchers to visualize metabolic processes within the body as they occur, a capability enhanced by the new analytical tools being developed. NVision demonstrated its software toolbox for standardizing the analysis of quantum-enhanced metabolic MRI data, essential for ensuring comparability of results from IBEC and the University of Antwerp, Q-AID says.
Partners also presented new artificial intelligence models designed specifically for metabolic imaging, furthering the project’s goal of translating complex data into clinically relevant insights. The consortium’s immediate next step involves a joint study using a glioblastoma model at both IBEC and the University of Antwerp, ensuring compatibility through shared protocols and a unified analysis pipeline.
This preclinical work will enable planned clinical studies in oncology and neurology, scheduled to take place at sites in France and Italy, with a dedicated regulatory task force preparing for their implementation. Irene Marco Rius of IBEC hosted the workshop, bringing together researchers to align research protocols and discuss data analysis tools.
A statement released following the meeting expressed gratitude, reading, “A big thank you to Dr. Irene Marco Rius and the IBEC team for hosting us, and to all partners for taking part!” The consortium’s work seeks to address a critical need for earlier, more accurate diagnosis and improved treatment monitoring of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.
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