Uppsala research chosen for international innovation showcase

Researchers at the Department of Information Technology, Uppsala University, are breaking new ground in medical imaging. Their project, which introduces a novel way to measure how fast sound travels through body tissue, has been recognised by Prototypes for Humanity – a global initiative that highlights science-backed technological breakthroughs addressing societal and environmental challenges. Each year, 100 projects are chosen from thousands of submissions worldwide to be showcased in Dubai.

“Being selected is a great honour and a recognition of the value of our research,” says Can Deniz Bezek, a final-year PhD student and lead developer of the project.

A new dimension in ultrasound imaging

Ultrasound is one of the most widely used medical imaging tools: safe, fast and affordable. Yet conventional ultrasound mainly shows how strongly tissues reflect sound, which does not always indicate what they are actually made of. This limits ultrasound’s ability to detect certain diseases, including breast cancer and fatty liver disease.

The researchers have developed a method to measure speed-of-sound within tissue using standard handheld ultrasound probes and existing clinical machines. Because different tissues, healthy or diseased, transmit sound at different speeds, this produces new, quantitative speed-of-sound images that provide more detailed and objective information.

“By adding this new dimension, we could enable faster and earlier disease detection and promote more equitable healthcare, even in resource-limited settings,” says Can Deniz Bezek.

From prototype to product

Led by Professor Orcun Göksel, an expert in medical imaging at Uppsala University, the core team also includes Dr Dieter Schweizer (ETH Zürich) and draws on various clinical and research partnerships. The team has built a full prototype that converts raw ultrasound data into detailed speed-of-sound images using a CE-marked system. They have tested the method in clinical studies, including showing improved detection of breast cancer.

“We have created a new type of ultrasound image without changing the hardware, only by applying advanced data analysis and physics-based modelling. That makes the technology easy to integrate into future devices,” says Orcun Göksel.

“We firmly believe that speed-of-sound will be an indispensable imaging option on ultrasound machines in the future. We’re thrilled to be playing a pioneering role in this technology, and eager to help it become reality in clinics,” he adds.

Connect with innovators

Being selected for Prototypes for Humanity gives Orcun Göksel and Can Deniz Bezek the chance to present their innovation on a global stage and connect with innovators, researchers, and investors.

“We hope this will help us move closer to bringing the technology into everyday clinical practice,” says Can Deniz Bezek.

Sara Gredemark