Advanced Photonic Systems for Real-Time Cancer Assessment
At 2M Engineering, we design and develop laser-based diagnostic systems that enable real-time, in-vivo assessment of tissue using advanced bio-photonic sensing technologies.
By combining multiple optical modalities into a single, clinically usable system, we translate cutting-edge photonics research into practical, regulated medical devices for point-of-care use.
Case Study: Multi-Modal Bio-Photonic Imaging for Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer is among the most expensive cancers to diagnose and treat in Western healthcare systems, largely due to repeated interventions, biopsies and follow-up procedures.
Within the European MIB project (Multi-modal, Endoscopic Bio-Photonic Imaging), 2M Engineering collaborates with clinicians, universities and research institutes to develop a next-generation laser-based diagnostic system that enables immediate tissue characterization during endoscopic examination.
From Visual Inspection to Functional Tissue Characterisation
Today, urologists primarily rely on visual inspection during cystoscopy, followed by biopsy and histopathology. This introduces delays, additional procedures and uncertainty.
The MIB system aims to:
- distinguish healthy from neoplastic tissue in real time
- assess tumour stage (depth of invasion)
- assess tumour grade (cell aggressiveness)
- support immediate clinical decision-making during the procedure
Importantly, the system does not replace the clinician, but provides objective, multimodal information to support expert judgement.
Multi-Modal Endoscopic Bio-Photonic Imaging
The MIB system integrates up to four complementary photonic modalities into a single endoscopic platform, all fitting within the dimensional constraints of commercially available cystoscopes.
Integrated Modalities
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
High-resolution cross-sectional imaging of tissue microstructure, enabling assessment of tumour invasion depth.
Raman Spectroscopy (SERDS)
Molecular fingerprinting of tissue, enabling differentiation between benign and malignant cells with high specificity, while suppressing background fluorescence.
Multiphoton Microscopy (MPM)
High-resolution cellular imaging with strong contrast in thick, scattering tissue, enabling assessment of tissue morphology at the cellular level.
Multispectral Optoacoustic Tomography (MSOT)
Functional imaging of tissue oxygenation, vascularisation and molecular composition at greater depths than purely optical methods.
Together, these modalities provide structural, molecular and functional information that no single technique could deliver on its own.
System-Level Innovation by 2M Engineering
2M Engineering’s contribution focuses on system integration, product engineering and regulatory readiness, including:
- integration of multiple laser-based modalities into a single endoscopic system
- optical, electronic and mechanical system architecture
- synchronization of multimodal data streams
- real-time signal processing and feature extraction
- usability design for operating theatre and outpatient use
- MDR-compliant development and documentation
This transforms complex photonic techniques into a clinically usable, reproducible and safe medical device.
Key System Characteristics
- multimodal photonic sensing in a single endoscope
- flexible and rigid endoscope configurations
- examination time < 15–20 minutes
- real-time feedback during endoscopy
- sensitivity > 96% (project results)
- professional use in OR and outpatient settings
- laser safety class 1
- designed for MDR-compliant clinical investigation
Clinical Impact
The MIB approach enables:
- faster and more accurate diagnosis
- reduction in unnecessary biopsies
- improved treatment planning during the procedure
- significant potential healthcare cost reduction
- improved patient experience and quality of life
The concept is not limited to bladder cancer and may be extended to:
- colon cancer
- prostate cancer
- oesophageal cancer
- lung cancer
- other epithelial malignancies
From Research to Regulated Medical Device
The MIB project exemplifies how 2M Engineering supports high-risk, high-impact medical innovation:
- translating photonics research into integrated systems
- developing proof-of-principle demonstrators
- supporting MDR-compliant clinical investigation
- preparing technology for future productisation
This aligns with our broader role as a development partner for complex medical devices based on advanced sensing technologies.
Consortium & Scientific Validation
The project brings together:
- hospitals and clinical departments
- universities and research institutes
- technology SMEs and system developers
Scientific results have been published in peer-reviewed journals, including:
Raman Spectroscopy for Instant Bladder Tumor Diagnosis:
System Development and In Vivo Proof-Of-Principle Study in Accordance with the European Medical Device Regulation (MDR 2017/745)
Cancers, 2024, 16, 3238
Laser-Based Diagnostics Beyond This Project
The expertise developed in MIB feeds into broader 2M activities in:
- optical biosensing platforms
- point-of-care diagnostics
- hybrid photonic-electronic medical devices
- regulated medical product development
Explore Laser-Based Diagnostic Innovation with 2M
If you are developing laser-based or photonic diagnostic systems and need a partner who understands both advanced optics and medical device reality, we would be happy to explore your challenge.