Magnetics Business & Technology - November/December 2021 - 4

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Diagnostic Imaging Prototype at Yokohama University Uses
TDK's Ultra-Sensitive Magnetic Sensor
Volume 20, Issue 6
Editor & Publisher
David Webster
Contributing Editor
Dr. Stan Trout
Director of Operations and
Support Services
Ross Webster
Director of Sales and Content
Scott Webster
Design & Layout
Scott Webster
Yokohama National University and TDK Corporation have developed a prototype image diagnosis
technology utilizing a highly sensitivity magnetic sensor. The technology presents
an alternative to existing techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and X-ray
computerized tomography (CT) scanning, and conventional magnetic particle imaging
(MPI).
The prototype technology is related to the magnetic particle imaging method which is intended
to detect and create images of magnetic particles accumulated in a tumor or blood
vessel. MRI diagnostics and CT scanning are typically used in clinical services in the diagnosis
of organ health, tumors and other conditions using the contrasting density of imaged
objects. Magnetic particle imaging, however, detects only the tracers in the imaged objects
to create images, similar to positron-emission tomography (PET).
The principle of the magnetic particle imaging is to detect the magnetic signals generated
by magnetic particles accumulated in a tumor or blood vessel from outside of the body.
Though magnetic particle imaging technologies primarily use a method that measures
electromotive force electromagnetically induced through detection coils, the new technology
developed by YNU utilizes a prototype high-sensitivity magnetic sensor to achieve this.
The prototype high-sensitivity magnetic sensor was developed by TDK for use in detecting
weak magnetic fields at room temperature. Although still under development, the prototype
sensor has been shown in a prior feasibility study to measure magnetic field distribution
in a heart. In a new collaborative study between YNU and TDK, the sensor was shown to
successfully reduce the strength of the alternate current magnetic fields applied to one
tenth lower than conventional levels. This reduced strength of the applied field is achieved
by the non-linear response characteristics of the sensor to the measured magnetic field
strength.
Based on their findings, the researchers expect that high-sensitivity magnetic sensors will
enable magnetic particles to be detected across wider imaging ranges including the head
or whole body of a human. Going forward, YNU and TDK plan to continue to develop the
technology with the goal of creating magnetic particle imaging devices that can be used
practically in clinical services.
For more info, see www.ynu.ac.jp and www.tdk.com.
Administration
Marsha Grillo
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