The NMI operates at the interface between the biosciences, material science and cutting-edge technologies. It has become part of a large network involving academic institutions, business enterprises and biotechnology experts. We've taken significant steps forward in our diverse activities. Here are some of the highlights of 2011:

The year started with the establishing of a new user forum for BioMEMS. These electromechanical systems are now used for manipulating and analyzing micron-sized biological particles. The 130 participants came from research institutions, hospitals and the business sector. Lively discussions were held for a full day and covered the current status of the technology, and its possible application in diagnostics and bioanalytics. Physicians described their vision of future bedside treatment: through BioMEMS it would not only be possible to take smaller blood or saliva samples from a patient; but even the results of the analysis would be faster, i.e. done within two minutes. Automatization and miniaturization are the keys to success in BioMEMS.

Other interesting developments that were presented involved a project on micro fluid systems to separate blood components and detach plasma. The NMI has developed a 'microfluid controller' by means of which the 'mini systems' can be exactly and reliably controlled. The controller can be combined with BioMEMS.

The NMI has developed testing systems that can detect proteins via their adhesion bonding to the smallest magnetic bead. This method requires very small samples and is being further developed.

Another NMI project involves the rapid detection of bacteria in urine which often cause painful urinary tract infections. The main aim is to cut the time needed for the test from several days to a few hours.

A neurotechnological milestone was reached in one of the most successful fields of our R&D: the latest sub-retinal implant, which is more light-sensitive than the previous chips, led to patients being able to recognize letters and words. The NMI had developed an innovate encapsulation method to ensure long-term safety of the chip. There are 1500 stimulation electrodes on the surface of this one-of-a-kind electronic microchip. The eye chip implant is a pioneering project in which the NMI and the University Eye Hospital in Tuebingen, where the long-term clinical study is being done, have collaborated over 15 years.

The NMI began working in February with the Center for Genomics and Transcriptomics (CeGaT), Tuebingen (Germany) and JSW Lifesciences GmbH, Grambach (Austria), on a new three-year project in which novel models for Alzheimer's and related diseases will be developed, based on the mitochondrial cascade hypothesis. Cutting-edge high throughput sequencing technology will be used for in-depth analysis of early and late changes that affect mitochondria in newly-developed cell culture and animal models.

In mid-year, the NMI took a major step forward by extending its premises: this meant that it could expand its activities, especially in the production of prototypes and small batch production of micro implants, biosensors and nano probes. With the addition of a new clean room and more laboratories for microsystems and nanotechnology as well as assembly and bonding technology, there was a lot to celebrate with staff, clients and partners from scientific institutions, hospitals and the business sector.

"Developments in the field of microsystem technology serve various business enterprises," said Professor Hugo Hämmerle, head of the NMI. "Many of these enterprises were once spin-offs of the NMI and microsystems are their basic technology," he underscored. Such projects are further evidence of the successful transformation of research findings into innovative products and viable services – a hallmark of the NMI.

In December, "Die Zeit", a leading German newspaper, published a special 16-page supplement on Baden-Wuerttemberg, the federal state in southern Germany which is known for its engineers and innovative spirit. Particular mention was made of the NMI's leading position – worldwide ‑ in biotechnology. Through the NMI's collaborations with small enterprises, several innovations were developed and later launched into the market. A range of spin-offs was the result of unique research done by the NMI.
Read the article (in German) (pdf)

Upcoming events:

"Stent electrodes for endovascular neurostimulation" is what Dr. Alfred Stett, physicist and deputy head of the NMI, will talk about when young as well as experienced scientists gather on 17 January in Stuttgart to hear the results of an ideas competition promoted by the State Ministry of Science in Baden-Wuerttemberg. Forty-two companies participated in feasibility studies funded by the ministry. Prizes will be given to the best projects and the meeting will also give attendees the opportunity to network and find partners for future collaborations. The focus of the competition was on biotechnology and medical technology – key areas of work at the NMI.