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Nanotechnology for predicting and preventing seizures in neurological diseases

Nanotechnology for predicting and preventing seizures in neurological diseases

INL researchers are part of the European consortium CROSSBRAIN – a groundbreaking project aimed at developing microbots to predict and prevent seizures in individuals suffering from conditions such as epilepsy or Alzheimer’s disease. Within the complexity of our brains, neurons communicate through various signalling mechanisms, including chemical, thermal, and electrical changes. Many neurological disorders affecting the brain originate from abnormal electrical activity, leading to conditions such as epileptic seizures. When these abnormalities in electrical activity occur, prompt identification and swift intervention are vital for effective treatment. However, current technologies for monitoring and modulating brain activity with precision are very limited. CROSSBRAIN brings together leading researchers from across Europe to develop a new solution for predicting and preventing seizures in neurological conditions. Coordinated by researchers from Tor Vergata University of Rome, the consortium aims to create micro-sized robots that can be implanted in our brains. By combining cutting-edge computing and nanomaterials, CROSSBRAIN will enable precise modulation of brain tissue using various stimulation methods, including electrical, mechanical, thermal, and optical principles. The microbots, powered wirelessly by a compact central unit, will then be implanted through blood vessels, with the capability to deliver genetic material. Once integrated into the network of neurons, these […]

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Portugal’s Ministers Elvira Fortunato and António Costa Silva visited INL today

Portugal’s Ministers Elvira Fortunato and António Costa Silva visited INL today

To highlight the crucial importance of INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory in driving scientific advancements and economic growth, Portugal’s Minister of Science, Technology, and Higher Education, Elvira Fortunato, alongside António Costa Silva, Minister of Economy and the Sea, visited INL today. The purpose of their visit was to showcase INL’s significant contributions on both national and international fronts, to delve into its strategic positioning within Portugal’s Recovery and Resilience Plans (PRRs) and its collaborations at the national and European levels, and to discuss INL’s future challenges and its positioning regarding ChipsAct. During the visit, the ministers underscored INL’s strategic alignment with Portugal’s PRRs, highlighting the laboratory’s integral involvement in driving forward key initiatives aimed at strengthening the research and innovation national ecosystem. INL’s collaborative efforts with national partners were also brought to the forefront, showcasing the laboratory’s commitment to fostering synergies within the external scientific and industrial community. Looking towards the future, the ministers addressed the challenges lying ahead for INL, particularly in the context of the burgeoning semiconductor industry. With the global semiconductor landscape evolving rapidly, INL faces the imperative of solidifying its position within initiatives like ChipsAct, aimed at fortifying Europe’s semiconductor capabilities. Ministers Fortunato and Silva […]

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Detecting food allergens with paper microfluidics and a smartphone

Detecting food allergens with paper microfluidics and a smartphone

Every day, millions are at risk of falling ill due to undetected allergens or contaminants in their food. However, a groundbreaking solution may be on the horizon, as researchers investigate a game-changing technology to combat foodborne risks. The Food Quality and Safety research group recently published a study describing a cutting-edge technology that provides faster, cheaper, and more reliable detection of allergens like β-lactoglobulin in our food. Traditionally, detecting allergens in food products has been a complex and costly process. Current methods, including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), require specialised equipment and highly-trained personnel, making them difficult to use. INL researchers are contributing to reshaping the landscape of food safety with a new nanotechnology approach. Their pioneering approach? Fluorescent carbon quantum dots combined with aptamers, which are short, single-stranded DNA or RNA molecules that can bind to specific target molecules with high affinity and specificity. By leveraging the unique properties of carbon quantum dots and aptamers, the researchers have developed a highly sensitive and portable detection method for β-lactoglobulin, the primary allergenic whey protein found in cow’s milk. What sets this technology apart is its simplicity and effectiveness. The team has created a user-friendly platform that […]

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INL hosts Info Session dedicated to the Chips JU 2024 funding opportunities

INL hosts Info Session dedicated to the Chips JU 2024 funding opportunities

INL partnered up with the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) and the National Agency of Innovation (ANI) to promote an Information Session dedicated to the European Partnership Chips Joint Undertaking (Chips JU). The event delved into the funding opportunities available under the initiative that acts as an instrumental central force in the implementation of the European Chips Act mission – a framework designed to strengthen the continent’s competitiveness and resilience in semiconductor technologies. Opening the session, the Portuguese Minister of Science, Technology, and Higher Education, Elvira Fortunato, assured that Portugal is deeply committed to contributing to the joint resilience of the European Union, having established a National Strategy for Semiconductors with strategic lines of action in innovative areas. According to the Minister, the endeavour aims at improving not only the infrastructure, facilities, laboratories, and organisation of chip manufacturing but also in terms of talent capabilities, qualification, and retention – one of the global challenges in this sector. The event counted with the presence of Anton Chichkov, Chips JU Programme Officer, who explored the joint undertaking work plan, introducing the calls available for 2024, and presenting the Pilot Lines and Competence Centres foreseen for this initiative, as well as […]

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INL advances heavy metal detection in industrial wastewater

INL advances heavy metal detection in industrial wastewater

The advances in industrial modernisation are driving research towards the development of new sensors for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) or Internet of Robotic Things (IoRT), aiming to enhance efficiency, production rates, and quality standards. However, current solutions face technical limitations in accuracy, and adaptability to real-world conditions. The Next-Gen Quality Control (NGQC) IoRT project focuses on developing an automated monitoring system to detect heavy metals in industrial effluents. This ecosystem includes environmental monitoring, as well as wastewater. Pilot testing is currently underway at Stellantis in Mangualde, embracing the principles of Industry 4.0. The monitoring system is integrated into a wastewater treatment plant to understand its evolution and whether water quality limits are being exceeded. Raquel Queirós, staff researcher in the Water Quality Group, explains, “This system collects a small sample from the tank at the beginning and end of the process. This sample is then filtered to detect the presence of the heavy metals”. Samuel Silva, research fellow in the Water Quality research group, adds, “The developed electrochemical sensors have been optimised to detect nickel and zinc.” The prototype has integrated an algorithm that calculates and estimates the concentration of the heavy metals. “The system is able to […]

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INL hosts ASCENT+ Research Accelerator Program

INL hosts ASCENT+ Research Accelerator Program

In January, the INL Research Core Facilities – Micro and Nanofabrication (MNF) and Advanced Electron Microscopy, Imaging & Spectroscopy (AEMIS) – hosted a special event focused on micro- and nanofabrication, electron microscopy, and spectroscopy techniques.  The event saw six participants from the ASCENT+ Research Accelerator come together for two and a half days of lectures and demos. During the event, participants were given a chance to see first-hand the different processing steps involved in microfabrication: deposition, lithography/patterning, and etching and electron microscopy and spectroscopy: SEM, FIB, XPS and TEM. The week’s highlight was an extended live demo of a microfabrication process inside the INL’s cleanroom.  The INL team was pleased to share their knowledge and contribute to the training of these promising researchers. Overall, the event provided an excellent opportunity for researchers to come together and learn about the latest techniques in micro- and nanofabrication. More about the project here. Text by Margaret Costa, Chief Operations Officer for Research Core Facilities and Patricia Barroso, Communication, Conferences, and Marketing Officer Photography by Andrea Gouvêa, Research Engineer, Micro and Nanofabrication Facility

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INL researchers developed an autonomous monitoring system for grape ripening

INL researchers developed an autonomous monitoring system for grape ripening

INL researchers have published a new study describing a novel prototype of a stand-alone system designed to autonomously collect grape ripening measurements. Climate change and the rapid transformation of economic value chains are driving the need for advanced decision-support systems in viticulture. The traditional method of monitoring grape maturation involves manual sampling and lab assays, but there’s a shift towards using optical techniques in agriculture. The Internet of Things (IoT) plays a key role in agriculture by connecting sensors, networks, and data processing. IoT is also one of the main drivers of precision viticulture, where the combination of multiple data sources can create complex tools for monitoring the vineyard. Hugo Oliveira, the main author of this study, explains “this IoT application involves using simplified spectral sensors to monitor grape ripening in real-time, providing analytical information about the grapes’ status. This work established the technology ground to achieve this objective”. The research work developed by INL researchers of the Systems Engineering and the Nanodevices groups, in collaboration with University of Milano, IMTEK, Sogrape, INESC-MN, and Automation, introduces a novel prototype of a stand-alone system which uses simplified spectral sensing to autonomously collect reflectance measurements directly from grape bunches. The system comprises […]

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Nano Circus: the amazing experience of arts & science

Nano Circus: the amazing experience of arts & science

Last Friday evening, INL hosted the Nano Circus, an extraordinary event that combined nanotechnology and circus arts, in a dazzling show of creativity and collaboration. Nano Circus showcased the culmination of a transformative artistic residency by the Equilibrium Social Circus team at INL. The Director General of INL Professor Clivia Sotomayor, took the stage to officially inaugurate the celebration, emphasising INL’s commitment to making the wonders of nanotechnology accessible to diverse communities. In July, the Equilibrium Social Circus team was invited to visit INL for an exciting artistic residency, fostering the exchange of knowledge. Sara Leite, project coordinator at Projecto Homem, gave a few words before the show “Equilibrium Social Circus is a social project dedicated to preventing behavioural issues in adolescence through Social Circus, an innovative approach merging circus arts and social intervention to act as a catalyst for psychosocial transformation”. These students weren’t passive observers – they were the architects of the Nano Circus. With guidance from their mentor Rodolfo Correia, they explored INL’s laboratories, delving into the microscopic world of nanotechnology and interacting with scientists. INL researchers Adriana Carneiro, Andrea Gouvêa, José Loché, and Duarte Mota, shared their scientific expertise, and the Equilibrium Social Circus team shared […]

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Celebrating 15 Years of Exemplary Leadership: Farewell to INL Deputy Director General, Prof. Paulo Freitas

Celebrating 15 Years of Exemplary Leadership: Farewell to INL Deputy Director General, Prof. Paulo Freitas

Yesterday, in a tribute to an extraordinary 15-year journey marked by unwavering dedication, the INL team organised a unique farewell celebration for its esteemed Deputy Director General, Prof. Dr. Paulo Jorge Peixeiro de Freitas. INL DDG, Prof. Dr. Paulo Freitas has been a driving force behind the success and growth of our institution, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of colleagues, collaborators, and the entire community. His visionary leadership, commitment to excellence, and tireless efforts have elevated INL – International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory to new heights. The ceremony commenced with warm reflections and memories from Prof. José Rivas and Prof. Lars Montelius – previous Directors-General, members of the INL council and members of the installation committee, and also team members lauding his transformative leadership, mentorship and the positive impact he had on both professional and personal development. In a surprise announcement, INL DG – Prof. Clivia Sotomayor-Torres, revealed that the institution had decided to rename the auditorium in honor of Prof. Dr. Paulo Freitas. Henceforth, it will be known as the “Auditorium Paulo Freitas.” This gesture serves as a lasting tribute to his remarkable legacy. Prof. Paulo Freitas got his Degree in Physics from the University Porto […]

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