In recent decades, there has been a tremendous increase in the spatial resolution of array sensors, which can now exceed 100 megapixels at low cost, and which has revolutionized biomedical imaging. As spatial resolution has become less and less of an issue, the spectral imaging capabilities have remained as a blind spot. Current spectral imaging technologies lack sufficient spectral resolution, speed, robustness to noise, versatility, and cost effectiveness to change the present biomedical paradigm, which is based on few-color imaging. The main objective of this project is to reshape spectral imaging, by developing a computational framework for high spectral resolution imaging, where physics, computer science, and applied mathematics are put together, to make it possible to image 10 to 1,000 times faster than with current techniques, while also resolving weak signals that cannot be detected at the present time. Motivated by recent advances and deep learning, we propose to shape and manipulate light with spatial light modulators, to acquire multiple pixels at the same time, to provide improved signal-to-noise ratios, while our algorithms will be used to reconstruct high spectral resolution images in real time. In this project, we will bring this new framework for hyperspectral imaging to the surgical operating room. By providing hyperspectral information in real time during neurosurgery, we will limit the requirement to time-consuming biopsies and help the surgeon to perform safer and less invasive surgery, which will in turn improve survival rates for the patients.

Recent pandemics showed Europe how serious health threats can be to society. Proactive approaches are needed to ensure that medical countermeasures are available during pandemics. PROACT EU-Response’s overarching objective is to prepare Europe for future pandemics by strengthening upon existing networks of experts and civil society focused on clinical therapeutic platform trials within hospital inpatient settings across Europe. In case of an outbreak, this network will provide capacity to pivot rapidly to implement large, multi-country platform trials studying therapeutics and diagnostic-tool performance. Underpinned by strong community involvement and further strengthened by the inclusion of social and implementation scientists, PROACT EU-Response centres on six objectives: expand a solid network of clinical centres across Europe that will implement a clinical trial assessing a syndromic approach for respiratory viral infections; strengthen a laboratory network to identify pathogens and biomarkers of disease monitoring for routine surveillance; support a network of methodologists and trialists who will ensure the trials’ logistical and methodological aspects; initiate a network of professionals to work on preparedness tools to ensure a smooth pivot from inter-pandemic to the pandemic period in case of an outbreak; build a network of social science researchers who will provide nuanced understanding of the social contexts; and establish a community group to work on activities that will empower patients and citizens in Europe regarding their own health and educate them about science and health issues. By bringing together scientists, social science researchers, and civil society members, PROACT EU-Response will benefit the entire European population and beyond through decreased mortality and morbidity associated with emerging diseases, lower societal economic costs of morbidity, strengthened research and innovation expertise, human capacities, and know-how for combatting communicable diseases.