Syringe of light hits hard-to-reach targets0 comments

Scientists at the University of St Andrews have developed a novel form of syringe, formed solely from light

A syringe formed solely from light has been developed by scientists at the University of St Andrews.

Using a method called ‘photoporation’, the researchers were able to inject insoluble compounds such as genes and drugs into individual cells with the assistance of light. This allows the potential detection of specific diseases and will assist in the development of medication.

Professor Kishan Dholakia, from the University of St Andrews, explained: “This method has to date, been hampered as it was necessary to focus the laser beam to a very precise and extremely small point at the cell surface – a place hard to locate!

“However, out novel technique uses a laser beam shape that does not spread: it stays narrow and elongated.”

The discovery means that such ‘exact focusing’ is no longer necessary with the light syringe. Developed as a ‘click and go’ system, the approach will also be accessible to non-experts.

Dr Frank Gunn-Moore, also from the University of St Andrews, continued: “The new form of laser has the ability to target any part of a cell without the need for exact focusing and is not stopped by any objects places in its way.”

Separately, scientists at the University of St Andrews have also developed the first photoporation system that can be put on the end of a specially designed optic fibre.

The light is able to travel along a fibre the width of a human hair. This paves the way for the system to be devised for endoscopes, which are commonly used in hospitals as a way of seeing inside the body.

Dr Gunn-Moore, continued: “We are very excited by these revolutionary new techniques. This method will allow us to build a machine that could be used with endoscopes. It will also allow us the potential to treat specific diseases and help in the testing of new drugs.”