(Pharmaceutical News, January 12, 2024) ASG Superconductors' (ASG) mGb2 superconductivity technology has been used in the energy and medical fields. For example, the world's only truly open MRopenEVO magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system was shown live in Dresden. The system uses real-time MRI imaging for proton therapy and cancer treatment, making it the focus of global innovation.

In fact, MRI has advantages over traditional imaging methods; it can visualize tumors using unique soft tissue imaging comparisons. This helps to better differentiate between the tumor and surrounding healthy tissue, so as to more accurately determine the area that needs to be irradiated. Furthermore, through MRI guidance, changes in the shape and size of the volume to be irradiated during continuous treatment can be mapped, so that the range of radiotherapy can be adjusted independently and immediately adjusted. One of the highlights of this scientific and technological breakthrough is its impact on cancer treatment. As an accurate real-time MRI, it can visualize tumor movement during radiotherapy and synchronize it with radiation.

The prototype shown at the German National Cancer Radiation Research Center (Oncoray) enabled us to conduct a global study for the first time to explore the impact of real-time full-body MRI guidance on improving the accuracy of proton therapy. As head of the “Experimental MR Integrated Proton Therapy” research team, Professor Aswin Hoffmann has been working with ASG engineers for many years on the development of the new system. “Using this new integrated full-body MRI prototype, we will be able to achieve real-time high-contrast visual imaging of mobile tumors. We are working to develop a technology that allows moving tumors to be exposed to proton beams only when they are in the right position. “This MRI device rotates around the patient, providing innovative positioning solutions for patients receiving proton therapy in a lying and upright position.”

The prototype is based on ASG technology already used in the mRopenEVO system. It is the only MRI in the world with a fully open design and MgB2 refrigerant-free superconductivity technology. Through scientific research, we will verify the added value of this novel treatment for thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic tumors. The prototype was successfully developed, installed and put into use thanks to close collaboration with international technical and industrial partners such as ASG Superconductors. ASG Superconductors not only acts as a basic manufacturer of MRI equipment, but also has deep expertise in developing, designing, and manufacturing superconducting MRI magnets (from 0.5T to ultra-high field 11.7T). Additionally, the device's rotating technology components were designed by MagnetTX Oncology Solutions in Edmonton, Canada.

Marco Nassi, CEO of ASG Superconductors, said: “Even with close cooperation with prestigious hospitals, partners, and universities, this innovative technology and scientific project in the field of proton therapy is still fraught with challenges. We are proud of our technology and capabilities in MgB2 superconducting materials, magnets, and MRI systems, and are expected to make significant contributions to improving cancer treatment outcomes in the near future.”