Their mid-infrared optoacoustic microscopy (MiROM) technology identifies proteins by using mid-infrared light to detect molecular vibrations—essentially the natural “dance” of molecules within protein structures. The work has been published in Nature Biomedical Engineering.

Unlike optical spectroscopy, which measures light attenuation, optoacoustics capture ultrasound waves generated when proteins absorb infrared light. This absorption causes a tiny, localized temperature increase, leading to transient expansion of medium surrounding the protein and the emission of ultrasound waves.

By analyzing these signals in real time, MiROM can detect structural changes in proteins, such as misfolding, by recognizing shifts in their molecular “dance.” This capability provides crucial insights into how cancer cells respond to treatment.