Light is an indispensable tool for advancing life science. It enables the visualization of biological structures through fluorescence microscopy and control of cellular functions using light-responsive molecules.

However, the wavelengths currently used in life sciences, ranging from ultraviolet to visible light, are limited in how deeply they can penetrate living tissues. While ideal for fluorescence imaging and molecular control, these wavelengths strongly interact with biological matter, preventing observation and manipulation deep inside the body.

Our research platform takes on a new challenge: harnessing light that interacts weakly with biological molecules yet can penetrate deeply into tissues. By exploring wavelengths that have been less utilized, such as X-rays, near-infrared, infrared light, and even ultrasound, we aim to develop new technologies that allow both observation and manipulation of biological processes occurring far beneath the surface of the body. By achieving selective interactions between target molecules and specific quantum particles such as phonons and electrons, we aim to pioneer a new frontier in photonic life science.

This research platform supports the “Excellence” pillar of HU VISION 2030, promoting world-class scientific innovation. At the same time, through international collaborations and by extending our discoveries toward social implementation and medical applications, we embody the vision of the “Extension” pillar—creating the future together with society.

Through this new way of using light, we aim to visualize life phenomena deep within the human body in real time and to open a new path toward a future where cells and tissues can be precisely controlled by light. Ultimately, this work hopes to enable earlier disease detection and the development of more effective, less invasive therapeutic approaches.

Project Members