东京热

Introduction to the Laser Research Centre (LRC)

The Laser Research Centre (LRC), housed within the Faculty of Health Sciences at the 东京热, is a pioneering research entity dedicated to advancing laser-based technologies in health and biomedicine. The centre focuses on basic experimental science, driving foundational knowledge in light-tissue interactions and applying this to address real-world healthcare challenges.

Our research portfolio is anchored in Photodynamic Therapy (PDT), including phyto-based PDT, and extends to wound healing, stem cell therapy, and photobiomodulation (PBM). A significant emphasis is placed on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underpinning these therapies, using both traditional two-dimensional and advanced three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models.

The LRC鈥檚 expanding scope includes investigations into cancer stem cells, adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs), organoid development, and personalised medicine strategies. These projects are underpinned by a strong commitment to rigorous experimentation, innovation, and translational potential.

We are home to a multidisciplinary team of scientists, postgraduate students, and postdoctoral fellows working collaboratively on high-impact research aligned with national health priorities and global Sustainable Development Goals. In addition to our academic outputs, the LRC is deeply engaged in science communication, community upliftment, and international collaboration, contributing meaningfully to both scientific advancement and societal well-being.

Research Focus

The Laser Research Centre (LRC) conducts basic experimental research in biomedical photonics, with a primary focus on irradiation-based therapies using laser and light technologies. Our investigations are supported by both two-dimensional (2D) monolayer cultures and advanced three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems, allowing us to model biological processes with increasing physiological relevance. A core objective across all research areas is to elucidate underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms, particularly those involving key cell signalling pathways.

Our four main niche areas are:

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

We investigate the use of light-activated photosensitisers (PS) for the selective destruction of diseased or malignant cells, focusing on cancer diagnosis and treatment. Research includes optimisation of PS dosage, targeted delivery systems, and exploration of mechanistic pathways such as oxidative stress, apoptosis, and immunogenic cell death. Both 2D cancer monolayers and 3D tumour models are utilised to evaluate therapeutic responses and translational potential.

Phyto-based Photodynamic Therapy (Phyto-PDT)

This niche focuses on the identification and evaluation of plant-derived bioactive compounds as natural photosensitisers. Studies assess their photodynamic efficacy, cytotoxicity, and synergistic potential when combined with laser irradiation. The effects of these agents are explored in 2D and 3D models of breast, lung, cervical, colorectal, and melanoma cancer cells, with particular emphasis on molecular signalling cascades involved in cell death and oxidative stress responses.

Wound Healing

Research in this area explores the effects of photobiomodulation (PBM) on wound repair mechanisms, especially within diabetic models. PBM is applied using specific laser or LED parameters to investigate outcomes such as fibroblast migration, angiogenesis, and collagen synthesis. Experiments are conducted in both 2D monolayer cultures and 3D models, with an emphasis on understanding signal transduction pathways such as TGF-尾, MAPK, and PI3K/Akt involved in tissue regeneration. Research also explores blue light effects on bacteria, and the therapeutic potential of nanoparticle or biomaterial combinations with PBM.

Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine

This niche investigates the influence of PBM and growth factors on adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs). Research aims to optimise conditions for enhancing viability, proliferation, and differentiation into functionally relevant cell types, including neurons, smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, and insulin-producing 尾-cells. Both 2D cultures and 3D hydrogel/organoid systems are used to examine how cell鈥揷ell and cell鈥搈atrix interactions, together with signalling networks, drive lineage specification and regenerative potential