NWO-KIC for improved skin cancer detection equipment

The research project NextDeLights has received an NWO-KIC grant. NextDeLights contributes to the Medical Delta Program ‘Cancer diagnostics for sustainable health care (CARES)’

The main goal and ultimate application of the imaging technology is in the healthcare sector. NextDeLights aims to improve light sources and detectors to develop new devices for spectral imaging and optical coherence tomography. These new devices are intended to enhance the early detection and diagnosis of skin cancer.

The researchers are working to improve skin cancer screening using SI, or spectral imaging, and achieve more accurate skin cancer diagnosis using OCT (optical coherence tomography). This will be done, among others, in collaboration with dermatologists and the dermatology department of Erasmus MC.

Researchers from TU Delft, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, Erasmus MC, and others collaborate within Medical Delta on NextDeLights together with industry partners. The companies develop new light sources and detectors, which the researchers further refine and integrate into spectral imaging and optical coherence tomography devices.

In this project, the new devices will be applied in healthcare. However, the light sources, detectors, and imaging technologies also have applications outside healthcare, for example in monitoring crops and ensuring the quality of semiconductor components.

From Technology Improvement to Practical Application

The research project combines two new developments in imaging technology: SI and OCT.

Spectral imaging (SI) is similar to regular imaging, with the difference that multiple images are taken using different colors. By analyzing these images based on their color differences, certain parts of the object can be made more visible depending on their specific spectral response.

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is comparable to acoustic ultrasound, but the image is created using light instead of sound. Like ultrasound, OCT can provide real-time internal images. The advantage over acoustic ultrasound is that light achieves higher resolution. It can, among other applications, be used for skin cancer diagnosis.

In the NextDeLights project, light sources and detectors are first further developed for use in SI and OCT. These light sources and detectors are then implemented in newly built optical coherence tomography and spectral imaging devices. The findings are shared with the device manufacturers so they can adjust and improve their products.

The principal applicant is Dr. Jeroen Kalkman (TU Delft), with co-applicants Dr. Steven van den Berg, Dr. Arjan Lock, and Dr. Joke Korevaar (The Hague University of Applied Sciences) and Dr. Renate van den Bos (Erasmus MC).

About the NWO-KIC Project Funding

Optical broadband systems play an important role in various sectors, from healthcare diagnostics to the agro-food industry. To (further) develop these technologies, the research program Future Optical Broadband Systems was established within the Knowledge and Innovation Covenant (Kennis- en Innovatieconvenant).

With this funding, six consortia—including the NextDeLights project consortium—can start interdisciplinary research on new broadband imaging technologies, including spectral imaging and tomographic imaging.

The research program aligns with the Knowledge and Innovation Agenda ‘Key Technologies,’ particularly the key technology of optics and photonics. The consortia consist of researchers from various fields and both public and private partners who contribute intellectually and financially to the research projects.

NWO develops innovation programs focused on the societal challenges of the Netherlands with the aim of creating impact for the economy, people, and society. These programs emphasize collaboration between knowledge institutions, private parties, and government. The results thus contribute to realizing economic opportunities. It is therefore essential that private parties invest in each research project.

Read more here about the six awarded projects.