MIT Technology Review & UK Department for Business and Trade present: Quantum Innovation

Quantum sensing and imaging is allowing us to delve deeper into brain health, identify diseases, and enhance treatment outcomes for patients.
See how the UK government’s quantum development is helping unravel neurological complexities, and unlock possibilities for the future of neurological research, treatment, and prevention.
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This video was produced by MITTR Studios in partnership with the UK Department for Business and Trade.
MITTR Studios is the custom video storytelling arm of MIT Technology Review. The editorial staff of Technology Review had no role in the creation of this content.
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Sources cited:
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Transcript:
The human brain is the most complex natural structure in the known universe, comprised of roughly 86 billion neurons transmitting 1,000 impulses per second. Much of how the brain works remains a mystery, driving the need for continuous research.
Quantum sensing and imaging is bringing clarity to the world of neurology, and these advanced brain imaging solutions are needed now more than ever. In 2015, neurological disorders were the leading cause of disability-adjusted life years, and the second leading cause of deaths globally, at 16.8%, affecting 9.4 million people.
Meanwhile, dementia prevalence is rising. The number of people living with dementia will double every 30 years, reaching 75 million by 2025, with a marked increase in developing economies. Quantum technology is bringing dramatic improvement to magnetoencephalography, or MEG, scanners - in detecting and treating neurological conditions such as autism, epilepsy, and dementia. The UK government is committed to making the United Kingdom a world-leading quantum economy. They’ve provided £1 billion pounds in funding since 2014, and have committed £2.5 billion pounds over the next 10 years to achieve this goal.
Cerca Magnetics is a quantum company that grew out of years of research. With the UK Quantum Technology Hub Sensors and Timing, who provided funding, Cerca created the world’s first wearable MEG scanner.Conventional MEG scanners are bulky, and require patients to remain still for long periods of time.
Cerca’s cutting-edge, optically pumped magnetometer system allows movement during scans. It uses small, innovative, highly sensitive quantum sensors that do not require cryogenic cooling, in a lightweight helmet that can adapt to any head shape or size and lets the patient move freely, allowing new accessibility for infants and children.
These images can show moment-to-moment changes, providing an extremely powerful means to measure the brain, potentially facilitating further research into neurological diseases and treatment outcomes.
The UK has world-leading strengths for quantum development: deep research talent, knowledge, and a rapidly growing quantum sector. With the assistance of the UK Quantum Technology Hub Sensors and Timing, Cerca Magnetics is leading the way.