RIKEN–Seiko Collaboration Center
JPTranslational Research
We aim to develop our single-molecule measurement technologies from fundamental research into practical applications. What makes a technology truly useful, and how can we build it? We explore these questions by developing instruments for testing sites, validating them with clinical samples at medical institutions, and collaborating with companies, taking an active role in connecting research with real-world practice.
Developing instruments for practical testing
Digital bioanalysis instruments remain difficult to deploy in testing facilities because commercial options are limited, many systems are large and expensive, workflows involve extensive manual work, and results can vary with operator skill. To bring highly sensitive analytical technologies into routine testing, measurement performance must be accompanied by ease of operation, simple installation, and affordable acquisition and operating costs. In response to feedback from testing sites, we are integrating microdevices, optics, control software, and analysis algorithms to create compact, low-cost testing systems with automated analytical workflows.
We developed an instrument incorporating a general-purpose liquid handler and partially automated the full analytical workflow for digital liquid biopsy methods, including SATORI (Commun Biol, 2022). Automated dispensing of samples and reagents reduces manual effort and supports reproducible analysis. In parallel, we developed a wide-field fluorescence imaging system (Lab Chip, 2023) and optimized its optics and electronic controls to create a portable detector measuring 14 × 22 cm and weighing 3.7 kg (iScience, 2024). We then integrated this detector with a liquid handler to create a fully automated desktop testing system that performs pretreatment—including heat treatment and simple purification using magnetic beads—and measurement in one unit (Cell Rep Phys Sci, 2026). By carrying out each step sequentially in one instrument, the system simplifies operation and delivers stable results regardless of the operator.
We are also developing consumables to reduce costs, improve versatility, and ensure a stable supply. We developed an open polycarbonate microdevice that can be mass-produced by repurposing compact-disc manufacturing lines, enabling low-cost production using existing manufacturing infrastructure. Its structure accommodates a variety of samples and reaction systems, supporting diverse digital bioanalysis applications. We have also made reagents storable at room temperature through freeze-drying, reducing storage and shipping burdens and enabling use at sites without refrigeration or freezer facilities. Together, these instrument and consumable developments are building a testing platform that is easy to introduce and operate in diverse settings. We will continue to improve miniaturization, performance, and affordability, advancing Japan-developed digital liquid biopsy technology into products used widely at testing sites around the world.
Collaboration with medical institutions and industry
Bringing a new test into practice requires evaluation with clinical samples, confirmation of reproducibility across sites, and improvements based on feedback from physicians and clinical laboratory professionals. We work with university hospitals and public research institutes to assess performance using clinical samples.
Manufacturing, quality control, and regulatory processes require capabilities beyond those of a research laboratory. We collaborate with companies specializing in instruments, reagents, and materials to develop technologies with mass production and standardization in mind. Through joint research, technology transfer, and venture creation, we choose a path suited to each technology, combining clinical insights with industrial expertise to develop useful tests.
We welcome new partnerships with research and medical institutions, universities, and companies interested in our work and technologies. Please contact us to discuss collaborative research, technology development, or practical applications.
