Positive Health Online

Vilnius University Researchers Advance Non-Invasive Cancer Detection Methods

Vilnius University Researchers Advance Non-Invasive Cancer Detection Methods

Researchers at Vilnius University have developed an effective approach to liquid biopsy that contributes to the field of non-invasive cancer detection methods, with significant implications for personalised medicine.

"Our team has successfully detected tumour DNA in urine samples, contributing to the development of liquid biopsy techniques," says Professor Sonata Jarmalaitė from Vilnius University's Life Sciences Centre.

This research enables monitoring of cancer progression by analysing DNA fragments released by tumours into bodily fluids – particularly valuable for cancers where traditional biopsies present challenges.

Vilnius University Scientists – Pioneers of Liquid Biopsy

"Bodily fluids passing through tumours collect nucleic acids from dead tumour cells. Tumour DNA in saliva, urine, and other fluids provides a valuable diagnostic tool. We were among the first to detect tumour DNA in urine, making us pioneers of liquid biopsy in Lithuania," says Prof. Jarmalaitė.

The team's research focuses on detecting circulating nucleic acids in urine, which are linked to prostate and bladder cancer, and potentially breast cancer:

"We specialise in minimally invasive diagnostics. Urine is entirely non-invasive and ideal for research, especially since cancer patients often have fragile blood vessels. Liquid biopsy allows monitoring of cancer progression, particularly after tumour removal. "Detecting tumour DNA can indicate potential metastases. This represents a breakthrough in oncology for both diagnosis and monitoring," notes Prof. Jarmalaitė.

She added, that liquid biopsy is already used clinically in some lung cancer protocols. We implemented it at the National Cancer Institute efficiently– the technology developed over 25 years, but with the right expertise, we introduced it in just two weeks.

Epigenetic Markers for Non-Invasive Diagnostics

Beyond genetic studies, the Vilnius University team works closely with clinicians on epigenetic research, particularly for kidney cancer.

"We have developed a set of epigenetic markers that can be tested using liquid biopsy from urine samples," Professor Jarmalaitė explains. "This is particularly relevant for kidney cancer, where traditional biopsy is a complex procedure."

The researchers note that kidney cancer diagnosis is occurring at younger ages, yet the disease often remains asymptomatic until advanced stages. While imaging techniques have improved early detection, there remains a significant need for molecular markers.

"Our collaboration with clinicians aims to develop tools useful for early kidney cancer detection. A key challenge is determining when a kidney tumour requires removal or treatment versus monitoring. Our genetic and epigenetic markers may complement imaging techniques in making these distinctions," says Professor Jarmalaitė.

Baltic Region Cancer Research Collaboration

The Vilnius team participated in the UK-funded "Mutographs" research project, studying regional variations in cancer incidence, with particular attention to the higher rates of kidney cancer in Lithuania and neighbouring countries.

Their research identified a mutation signature present in the Baltic region and Poland that differs from patterns associated with common risk factors like smoking or alcohol consumption.

"We've identified a genetic profile that suggests region-specific factors may play a role in our higher kidney cancer rates," Professor Jarmalaitė explains. "The sequencing analysis was conducted at the UK's Sanger Institute, where an algorithm linked mutation profiles to potential carcinogenic exposures."

This research follows a methodology similar to previous Sanger Institute work that identified aristolochic acid in herbal remedies as the cause of kidney cancer clusters in other European regions. While the specific environmental factor in the Baltic region remains unidentified, the research provides valuable direction for further investigation.

Advancing Personalized Medicine Through Liquid Biopsy

The implications for personalised medicine are substantial, as liquid biopsy enables more frequent and less invasive monitoring of cancer progression.

"In precision medicine, doctors need to administer specific drugs at the right time and in precise concentrations. This cannot be done without accurate genetic information," explains Dr Sabaliauskaitė. "Currently, we track cancer progression using blood-based liquid biopsy, but urine-based methods show promise for simpler application."

The team is developing specialized tests for monitoring small kidney tumours that may not require immediate intervention – potentially helping clinicians make more informed treatment decisions and sparing patients unnecessary procedures while ensuring timely intervention when needed.

"Prescribing precision medicine drugs requires an accurate genetic diagnosis. Doctors need to know exactly which genetic mutations are present to choose the appropriate treatment," adds Professor Jarmalaitė. "The effectiveness of precision medicine drugs is significantly higher when properly matched to the patient's genetic profile, improving survival rates."

The research highlights the importance of genetic counselling and family history collection, as approximately 10% of kidney cancer cases are hereditary. The researchers note that fewer such cases are diagnosed in Lithuania, likely due to less frequent genetic testing.

As genetic and epigenetic testing becomes increasingly central to cancer treatment globally, this research from Lithuania represents a practical contribution to the field of personalised cancer medicine.

Media Contact and Further Information

Gintaré Bidlauskiené   <gintare.bidlauskiene@cr.vu.lt>

Science Communication Project Manager
Vilnius University
Tel: +37068537799

Novel Enzyme Found in Gut Bacteria Could Revolutionize Prebiotic Research

Researchers have discovered a new enzyme that breaks down and synthesizes previously unexplored glycans with prebiotic capabilities

Carbohydrate chains, or glycans, are complex sugar-like compounds that play important roles in various biological processes and structures in our bodies. Galactosides are a type of glycan found in plants, animals, and microorganisms. For example, galactosides are present in plant cell walls and in certain types of beneficial sugars known as prebiotic oligosaccharides, which support gut health. Many glycans containing galactose are also added to processed foods like juice and powdered milk due to their potential health benefits. Studying the enzymes that break down these glycans is essential for understanding their prebiotic mechanisms and for improving the way they can be used in food and health products.

β-Galactosidases are enzymes that release galactose from galactosides. However, different β-galactosidases target specific galactosides. These enzymes are found in the intestines of mammals, such as in the human gut bacteria Bifidobacterium, which helps digest complex carbohydrates. Recent studies have shown that another gut bacterium, Bacteroides xylanisolvens, has the potential to utilize a broad range of carbohydrates, though little is known about its exact abilities.

In a groundbreaking study, a research team led by Associate Professor Masahiro Nakajima from the Department of Applied Biological Science, Faculty of Science and Technology at the Tokyo University of Science (TUS), Japan, discovered a novel β-galactosidase enzyme in B. xylanisolvens. This enzyme specifically targets unique galactose-containing glycans which may possess prebiotic properties. The team included Mr. Yutaka Nakazawa from TUS, Associate Professor Hiroyuki Nakai from Niigata University, and Assistant Professor Tomohiko Matsuzawa from Kagawa University. This study was published online in Communications Biology on January 16, 2025.[1]

Discussing the motivation behind their study, Dr. Nakajima explains,

“Although there are numerous types of glycans with diverse and complex structures, many glycans still have unknown functionality and potential uses. Since enzymes are essential for the synthesis of glycans, the search for new enzymes is extremely important. Our novel enzyme could be used to synthesize large amounts of unique glycans with prebiotic properties that may be beneficial to human health.”

B. xylanisolvens contains multiple genes encoding β-galactosidases. The researchers identified that one of these genes, Bxy_22780, encodes a novel β-galactosidase. Initially, the enzyme showed no activity towards natural β-galactosides. However, when reactions were conducted in the presence of a nucleophile mutant, α-D-galactosyl fluoride (α-GalF) as a donor substrate, and galactose or D-fucose as an acceptor substrate, the team successfully detected reaction products. Nuclear magnetic resonance studies confirmed that the disaccharide produced in the reactions was β-1,2-galactobiose.

Further studies on the specificity of the Bxy_22780 enzyme revealed that it is highly specific for galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), which is a mixture of oligosaccharides with various linkages. Notably, this enzyme exclusively targets GOS that have a specific type of chemical bond, called β-1,2-galactosidic linkages. Kinetic analysis also revealed that this enzyme effectively acts on β-1,2-galactobiose and β-1,2-galactotriose. To understand why the enzyme is selective, the researchers examined the structure of the enzyme using X-ray diffraction studies. They discovered that the enzyme binds to a molecule called methyl β-galactopyranose at a key site called subsite +1. The structure showed that the molecule's chemical group is positioned in a way that is perfectly suited for breaking down these particular sugar chains. This unique structure explains why the enzyme is highly specific for β-1,2-galactooligosaccharides.

“β-1,2-Galactooligosaccharides and the enzymes are rarely reported. Our discovery is a crucial step toward understanding the functions of these unique glycans, whose roles are largely unknown,” explains Dr. Nakajima. “Furthermore, while there is currently no evidence that β-1,2-galactooligosaccharides possess prebiotic properties, they hold potential in this regard. This enzyme could also open new therapeutic avenues for treating diseases like Chagas disease, caused by a parasite that produces glycans containing these structures. This novel enzyme could therefore not only help improve human gut health but also contribute to developing new life-saving drugs.”

The discovery of Bxy_22780 marks a significant breakthrough in prebiotic research, unlocking exciting opportunities for improving human health. This enzyme could drive the development of innovative prebiotic products to enhance gut health and support digestive functions, offering new opportunities in the food and supplement industries.

Reference

1. Nakazawa, Y., Kageyama, M., Matsuzawa, T. et al. Structure and function of a β-1,2-galactosidase from Bacteroides xylanisolvens, an intestinal bacterium. Commun Biol 8 (66) 2025. https://doi.org/10.1038/s42003-025-07494-1. 16 January 2025.

 Media Source

Rddhi Chhabra  rddhi.chhabra@cactusglobal.com

Media contact

Yoshimasa Iwasaki
Public Relations Division, Tokyo University of Science

Email: mediaoffice@admin.tus.ac.jp

 https://www.tus.ac.jp/en/

Public Relations office

Niigata University

pr-office@adm.niigata-u.ac.jp

Faculty of Agriculture, Administrative Division, Kagawa University

shomu-a@kagawa-u.ac.jp

Further Information

Dr. Masahiro Nakajima, Department of Applied Biological Science, Tokyo University of Science. Email: m-nakajima@rs.tus.ac.jp

Mullein. Experts Share Why This Plant Ingredient Is A Must For Beating Coughs And Colds

Whilst spring might be on the horizon, the dreaded cough and cold season is sticking around for longer. And with symptoms such as respiratory issues, ongoing coughs which for many are also wrecking their slumber habits, a runny nose, headaches and sneezing as well as watery eyes, body aches, fatigue, feeling stuffy in the head - the symptoms of coughs and colds can be a real burden.

In fact, a fifth of Brits say they would take time away from work if they had a cough or cold, 19% would take a sick day if they couldn't concentrate and a high 93% of Brits admit that they have struggled to sleep while suffering from a cough or cold. That’s according to real-world research by Puressentiel [1] – https://uk.puressentiel.com/ – the brains behind the evidence backed plant-based health products for everyday wellness needs. Plus, cough cold symptoms for many seem to be getting worse and harder to bust.

Over a third (36%) of Brits have had a cough in the last month and 35% have had a cold; a third of these respondents claim that their symptoms were much more ruthless and took longer to go away than in the past two or three years. So how can we help to relieve the a cough and cold?

Natural health specialist and chemist, Dr Tim Bond says:

“Natural solutions can help. Specifically, mullein, a natural plant wonder that more of us need to be speaking about. Here’s why.

Mullein: The Natural Aid You Need

You may have never heard of mullein; however, it could help be the secret to offering relief from coughs, colds and winter congestion.

GP, Dr Nisa Aslam from Puressentiel explains:

“The plant mullein, also known as verbascum thapsus, has traditionally been used for various medicinal purposes. The leaves were used to rub over inflamed skin whilst the roots were boiled to make a cough syrup. [2] As an expectorant, mullein helps to break up mucus, making it thinner, and in turn, making it easier to cough up.”

Research backs up mulleins expectorant qualities as a review published in the journal Respiratory Medicine found that the use of mullein was useful in treating conditions like coughs and respiratory congestion, noting its effectiveness as an expectorant.[3].  Other data also has anti-inflammatory properties, which could explain its traditional use in helping to manage respiratory conditions like bronchitis.[4] Dr Tim Bond adds: “Mullein has antiseptic qualities too. Research conducted found that mullein was effective at fighting E. coli bacteria and pneumonia.[5] Plus, past research found that mullein extracts exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against a range of bacteria and fungi, supporting the traditional use of mullein for treating respiratory infections as well as ear infections.[6] More clinical research is needed.”

Dr Nisa Aslam notes further: “Mullein’s antiviral properties may help in the prevention and treatment of viral infections like the flu too, according to published data.”[7]

Dr Tim Bond continues:

“Puressentiel Respiratory Cough Syrup, available from Holland & Barrett,  contains mullein as well as a number of other natural ingredients to help clear a cough and make breathing a little easier. Absolutely vital when trying to bust a cough or the congestion of a cold which often comes with an irritating cough keeping most of awake at night.”

Dr Nisa Aslam explains further:

“Puressentiel Respiratory Cough Syrup also contains honey, propolis, marshmallow and Echinacea – to help soothe sore throats and helps support the body’s natural defences. This combination of natural ingredients helps to clear the upper respiratory tract by hydrating mucous membranes, reducing irritation and providing a lasting protection to reduce cough frequency.”[8]

• 100% natural containing plants including Mullein, plus honey and propolis;
• Contains the essential oils Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Rosemary and Lemon;
• Helps calm and reduce the frequency of coughs from the first day;
• Sweet honey taste;
• Reduces irritation and provides lasting protection for the mucous membrane
• Suitable for ages 7 and above.

Mullein – The Facts: Verbascum thapsus, more commonly known as mullein, has been around for thousands of years and is a member of the snapdragon plant family.  Mullein grows in the United States but originated in Europe, Asia and North Africa.

Mullein is an expectorant, which means it helps the body expel excess mucus, usually by helping make your coughs more productive, to bring up mucus that may be settling in the chest or in the throat. It is also a demulcent. As a result of its health properties, Mullein is a great hack for busting coughs and colds.

Your Cough and Cold Busting Self-Care Essentials

There are also a number of other products in the Puressentiel respiratory range which have been created to help provide relief from coughs and colds so you can keep getting on with life.  Here’s a fast summary to the range:

Tackling sore throats: To soothe a sore throat, Dr Nisa Aslam suggests Puressentiel Respiratory Soothing Syrup which also has a combination of plant extracts, seven essential oils and soothing ingredients, such as honey and lemon. This syrup forms a protective film, soothing the throat, pharynx and tired vocal cords, while supporting your natural defences.

Puressentiel Respiratory Soothing Syrup:

• 100% natural, fast, effective relief;
• Cough relief: soothes irritated mucous membranes that line our throats and cause us to cough and provides lasting protection for the upper respiratory tract;
• Calms cough: reduces irritation and provides lasting protection for the tiny hairs, known as cilia (mucous membranes);
• A natural, effective, special formula with a blend of: 3 aromatic honeys (thyme, lemon tree and lavender), marshmallow extract, elderberry, mullein and propolis
• Non-drowsy and free from: gluten, colouring and preservatives;
• A formulation with sustainable honey. For every purchase made, Puressentiel makes a donation to the global beekeeper’s network;
• Suitable from three years plus.

For kids, Puressentiel Acti Pure Kids Syrup contains a 100% natural formula made of 100% pure organic honey, natural plant extracts of elderberry and erysimum and vegan vitamin D3, sourced from lichen.

Dr Tim Bond explains that this is ideal for soothing and softening children’s sore throats during winter.

It helps unblock the nose and supports the body’s natural immunity at the first signs of a cold.

Puressentiel’s Acti Pure Syrup:

• 100% natural with 100% organic honey, erysimum, elderberries and vegan vitamin D3 sourced from lichen’
• Helps soothe and reduce the duration of cold and flu-like symptoms when used at the first signs of a cold;
• Supports the body’s natural immunity;
• Delicious natural taste;
• Suitable for ages 3 and above.

Feeling stuffy: If you are dealing with a blocked or runny nose Dr Tim Bond recommends Puressentiel Respiratory Decongestant Nasal Spray, available from Holland & Barrett. This combines a 100% natural sterile saline solution to soften blocked nasal mucosa in the event of a cold and other nose congestion. Organic rosemary floral water plus the soothing and decongestant essential oils of eucalyptus radiata, rosat geranium, niaouli, ravintsara, as well as propolis help you to breathe more easily and helps moisturise the nasal cavity

As well as this, it’s also clinically proven to decongest from the first few minutes of use. 

New Puressentiel Respiratory Decongestant Nasal Spray:

• 100% Natural and organic relief for Colds, rhinitis (chronic or allergic), sinusitis, rhinopharyngitis;
• A unique formula with a blend of: 4 Organic Essential Oils, Hypertonic Sea water, Organic Rosemary floral water, Propolis and Echinacea;
• Fast, effective, clinically proven relief;[1]
• Non-irritating and preservative-free;
• Suitable for people with high blood pressure - no corticosteroids or vasoconstrictors;
• Suitable from 3 years plus.

When you need a stronger spray which can help to prevent ear, nose and throat issues whilst strengthening the nasal lining’s defence, Puressentiel Respiratory Nasal Hygiene Strong Jet Spray, can help.

Dr Nisa Aslam explains that it deeply cleanses your nose and helps in the treatment of colds.

Puressentiel Respiratory Nasal Hygiene Strong Jet Spray:

• 100% plant-based formula with plant extracts of organic calendula with soothing and protective properties;
• 100% pure and natural seawater, rich in marine trace elements;
• An alcohol-free, no preservatives, propellant gas-free format;
• Protection against colds or ear infection;
• A 3-in-1 action: gently cleanses, hydrates and decongests with a user-friendly nozzle and multidirectional spray. Ideal for a sensitive and irritated nose;
• The elimination of impurities and reduces the viscosity of mucus;
• The restoration of natural moisture.
• A Medical Device Class IIa.

New Puressentiel Resp' OK Sinus Express Roll-On soothes congested sinuses and makes breathing easier. With six organic essential oils - eucalyptus globulus, peppermint, spike lavender, picea mariana leaf oil, niaouli, marjoram, the fresh, decongestant effect and the targeted massage of the roller ball helps to relieve you of that blocked up feeling.

New Puressentiel Resp' OK Sinus Express Roll-On:

• 100% plant-based formula with 6 organic essential oils with proven decongestant efficacy. It is also enriched with the hydrating natural, organic ingredient, Aloe vera and plant-based glycerine;
• Paraben-free, alcohol-free, preservatives-free, synthetic fragrance-free, mineral oils-free, dyes-free;
• Immediate relief and proven tolerance;
• Essential Oil double action: transdermal + inhaled;
• Suitable for 10 years and upwards.

The power of nature can really help to ease the symptoms of coughs, colds and congestion and ingredients such as mullein provide the self-care support your body needs to keep going, comfortably. 

Dr Tim Bond adds: “Puressentiel has created a number of products to bust coughs, soothe a blocked nose, ease a sore throat and help support the body’s natural defences. Their range of safe, effective and easy-to-use self-care products are all scientifically backed and they are essential for all the family.”

 Media Source and Contact

Paula Figgett <Paula@junglecatsolutions.com >

Notes and References

1. Puressentiel - this research of 2,000 UK based Britons was commissioned by Puressentiel and conducted by Perspectus Global; Winter 2025.
2. ‹https://health.clevelandclinic.org/mullein-benefits
3. Journal Respiratory Medicine: The efficacy of herbal medicinal products for the treatment of respiratory diseases. 2007.
4. Journal Phytotherapy Research: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of Verbascum thapsus leaf extract. 2011.
5. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/11148884_Biological_activity_of_Common_Mullein_a_medicinal_plant
6. Journal: Journal of Ethnopharmacology : Antimicrobial and antiviral activities of Verbascum thapsus L. extracts. 2003.
7. Journal: Antiviral Research: Evaluation of the antiviral activity of Verbascum thapsus extract against influenza virus. 2012.
8. Puressentiel. Data on file.

Targeted Alpha Therapy: A Breakthrough in Treating Refractory Skin Cancer

 A novel radioactive drug developed by researchers demonstrates potential for targeting and treating metastatic melanoma

Metastatic melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. In an effort to achieve targeted therapy for metastatic melanoma, researchers from Japan recently developed a new radioactive drug that emits alpha particles. With their short range of emission and high energy, alpha particles are particularly promising for targeted therapies that require high energy release in the cancer tissue while minimizing the damage to nearby healthy tissues.

Metastatic melanoma, also known as stage IV melanoma, is a type of skin cancer that spreads to other parts of the body. It is one of the most aggressive forms of skin cancer, with current therapies—including immunotherapy and targeted drugs – showing limited effectiveness. Radiotherapy is an emerging treatment for melanoma, but conventional beta-emitting radionuclide therapies have limitations due to their low energy transfer and long-range radiation, which can cause unintended damage to healthy tissues.

To enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy, a research team from Japan, led by Assistant Professor Hiroyuki Suzuki from Chiba University, including Dr. Tomoya Uehara from Chiba University, Dr Noriko S Ishioka from National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Dr Hiroshi Tanaka from Juntendo University, Dr Tadashi Watabe from Osaka University, adopted targeted alpha therapy (TAT) as a promising alternative to conventional beta therapy. They developed an astatine-211 (²¹¹At)-labeled peptide drug that could offer a potential breakthrough for treating metastatic melanoma. The research was conducted in collaboration with the National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology and was published in the European Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging on January 20, 2025.[1]

TAT is a form of radiotherapy that involves drugs labeled with alpha particle-emitting radioisotopes. Compared to other forms of radioactive emissions (beta and gamma emissions), alpha particles are heavier and therefore have a short range. Owing to their greater mass, alpha particles also carry relatively higher energy, which is beneficial for the disruption of cancer cells.

To develop the treatment, the researchers first identified an optimal hydrophilic linker to enhance tumor targeting and reduce off-target accumulation. The team then designed an astatine-211(²¹¹At)-labeled α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) peptide analog called [²¹¹At]NpG-GGN4c to specifically target melanocortin-1 receptors (MC1R), which are overexpressed in melanoma cells.

“Since the tagged peptide was also receptor-targeted, it allowed for a high tumor selectivity while minimizing radiation exposure to the surrounding tissues,” comments Dr. Suzuki.

The synthesized peptides were then tested on B16F10 melanoma-bearing mice models, following which they conducted a biodistribution analysis where the team compared tumor uptake, clearance from organs, and the overall stability of the compound. Dr. Uehara elaborates on the methodology, saying,

“We treated the mice with different doses of the compound while monitoring the tumor response, body weight, and survival rates over time. We found a dose-dependent inhibitory effect in a melanoma-bearing mouse model, confirming the effectiveness of our approach.”

The findings were remarkable. The [²¹¹At]NpG-GGN4c showed high accumulation in tumors and rapid clearance from non-target organs, confirming its specificity for MC1R on melanoma cells. Monitoring tumor growth revealed significant tumor suppression in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, [²¹¹At]NpG-GGN4c also demonstrated high stability in blood plasma, minimizing the risk of radioactive leakage in the body.

Hailing the exciting results, Dr. Suzuki affirms that the molecular design of their synthesized drug could be useful for developing other ²¹¹At-labeled radiopharmaceuticals.

He says, “We believe our approach could open up new possibilities for treating refractory cancers beyond melanoma.”

The team is also hopeful about promoting a clinical application of ²¹¹At-based TAT.

“If successfully translated into human trials, this therapy may emerge as a viable treatment option for patients with advanced melanoma in the coming years,” speculates Dr. Suzuki. “This could provide new therapeutic opportunities for patients with refractory cancer.”

Reference

1. Suzuki, H., Yamashita, S., Tanaka, S. et al. An ²¹¹At-labeled alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone peptide analog for targeted alpha therapy of metastatic melanoma. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00259-024-07056-3 . 2025.

About Assistant Professor Hiroyuki Suzuki from Chiba University

Dr. Hiroyuki Suzuki is an Assistant Professor at the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University. He earned his doctoral degree from Chiba University in 2013. His research focuses on the development of radiopharmaceuticals. He has made significant contributions to the scientific community through his groundbreaking research focused on radiotheranostics. In November 2024, Dr. Suzuki received the Best Young Investigator Award from the Japanese Society of Nuclear Medicine in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field.

Media Source:

Rishita Sachan <rishita.sachan1@cactusglobal.com >

Funding

This work was supported by a Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C) (22K07686), a Fund for the Promotion of Joint International Research (Fostering Joint International Research) (23KK0291) from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS), and JSPS Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research on Innovative Areas, grant number 22H04924.

Contact: Hiroyuki Suzuki

Assistant Professor,  Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University

 h.suzuki@chiba-u.jp

Public Relations Office, Chiba University

1-33 Yayoi, Inage, Chiba 263-8522 JAPAN

koho-press@chiba-u.jp

Tel: +81-43-290-2018

National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology

 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba 263-8555 JAPAN

 global@qst.go.jp

Tel: +81-43-3025