Next-Generation Bio-Measurement Opened by Terahertz Biophotonics: Technical Challenges and Roadmap

A research group at Waseda University, Okayama University, and the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) has systematized the fundamental challenges that have hindered the development of 'terahertz biophotonics,' a field utilizing terahertz waves to non-invasively and non-destructively examine biological tissues, cells, and molecules, and has announced a technology roadmap for overcoming them.

While terahertz waves have attracted attention as a next-generation bio-measurement technology due to their ability to detect hydration states and intermolecular interactions in biological organisms, their practical application in medicine and life sciences has been significantly delayed. In this study, the group analyzed current trends such as microscope technology and high-sensitivity sensors to present a realistic technology roadmap.

These results were published in the 'Journal of Physics Photonics' on May 29, 2026. This guideline is expected to accelerate industry-academia collaboration and interdisciplinary convergence, thereby fostering the development of next-generation medical and biological measurement technologies.