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  • 송장근 교수 연구

    Transparent OLED Device Capable of Displaying Different Information in Both Directions

    Professor Jang-Kun Song's research team from the Department of Display Engineering demonstrated a transparent OLED display capable of displaying different information in both directions by integrating a Yb-Ag transparent electrode with work function control properties and excellent surface characteristics, along with a novel pixel arrangement. Transparent displays are one of the most advanced display technology fields in which South Korea leads globally. At last year’s CES exhibition in Las Vegas, LG Display’s transparent OLED was selected as the best product of CES. However, transparent displays have yet to secure a killer application and are currently applied only in niche markets. The biggest advantage of transparent displays is their ability to provide information while maintaining a sense of spatial openness. Development of core technologies and application products that fully leverage this advantage is essential for expanding the transparent display market. For example, if a transparent display can provide different information to two people facing each other while not obstructing their view, it could play a crucial role in various environments such as education, meetings, consultations, and customer service. To achieve this, advanced transparent electrode technology and a display pixel structure capable of displaying bidirectional information with a minimal increase of pixels are required. Professor Jang-Kun Song’s research team, including his master course student Eun-Young Choi, developed a Yb-Ag alloy electrode with high transparency, high conductivity, extremely low surface roughness, and work function tunability. They successfully demonstrated a transparent display incorporating this electrode. Additionally, they developed a technology that separates the areas with opaque TFTs from those without, enabling independent operation of single-directional and bidirectional information display pixels, allowing the display of different information in both directions. The newly developed bidirectional transparent display technology can also adjust the relative brightness on both sides. Therefore, it can be used for a bidirectional transparent displays on a store window, where the ambient brighness inside the store is much different from that outside. This capability makes it a crucial technology for expanding the transparent display market. This research was supported by Korea Institute for Advancement of Technology(KIAT) grant funded by the Korea Government(MOTIE) under HRD Program for Display Industrial Innovation and by the Ministry of Education’s Basic Research Laboratory Program. The research findings were published in Light: Science & Applications (IF: 20). ※ Paper Title: Transparent OLED displays for selective bidirectional viewing using ZnO/Yb:Ag cathode with highly smooth and low-barrier surface ※ Journal: Light: Science & Applications ※ D.O.I: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41377-024-01739-0 ▲ (Top)A transparent electrode with high transmittance and low surface roughness using a Yb:Ag alloy, (Middle)Various display modes based on pixel arrangement and operation—front display mode, identical image display on both sides, and different image display on the front and back, (Bottom) The driving circuit and image signal application method used to achieve these display functions

    • No. 295
    • 2025-03-18
    • 63
  • 최광용 교수

    Prof. Choi’s Research Team Observes 1/9 Magnetization Plateau and Dirac Spinon Quasiparticles in aKagome Spin Lattice

    Quantum spin liquids (QSLs) differ from conventional magnetic materials in that they do not exhibit long-range magnetic order even at absolute zero temperature. Instead, spins in QSLs remain highly entangled, giving rise to topologically protected quantum states. The kagome lattice, a two-dimensional network of edge-sharing triangles, is particularly prone to geometric frustration, which prevents conventional spin alignment and promotes strong quantum fluctuations. These characteristics make kagome spin systems ideal platforms for exploring exotic quantum phases, including quantum spin liquids and field-induced magnetization plateaus. In this study, the research team successfully observed the 1/9 magnetization plateau in the copper-based kagome compound YCu3(OD)₆+xBr3−x under a strong magnetic field of 15 T. By combining thermodynamic measurements (specific heat, thermal conductivity, and pulsed-field magnetization) with Raman spectroscopy, they identified Dirac spinon quasiparticles, raising the possibility that the plateau state may be linked to an unconventional quantum phase, potentially a Z3 spin liquid. Professor Kwang-Yong Choi stated, "The realization of the 1/9 magnetization plateau in a kagome spin lattice under applied magnetic fields marks a breakthrough in the study of novel quantum materials. This research is expected to contribute to future applications in quantum computing, particularly in the development of highly stable qubits and topological quantum computation based on spin liquid states.“ This research was conducted in collaboration with Dr. Dirk Wulferding and Dr. Sungkyun Choi from the Institute for Basic Science (IBS), as well as Professor Ki-Hoon Kim’s team at Seoul National University. The study was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) and was published online in Nature Physics (Impact Factor: 18.1, JCR Top 5%) on January 12, 2024. Furthermore, it was featured in Nature Physics' "News &Views" section on February 12, 2024, under the title "A kagome antiferromagnet reaches its quantum plateau.“ ※ Title: One-ninth magnetization plateau stabilized by spin entanglement in a kagome antiferromagnet ※ Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41567-023-02318-7 Illustration and observation of Dirac spinons in the kagome lattice and the 1/9 magnetization plateau in the magnetization curve

    • No. 294
    • 2025-03-13
    • 309
  • 김태성 교수 연구

    Sungkyunkwan University develops Next-Generation Encryption Technology with van der Waals Topological Insulators

    Professor Taesung Kim’s research team in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Sungkyunkwan University (President Ji-Bum Yoo) has collaborated with Professor Seok-Joon Kwon’s research team to develop next-generation encryption technology based on Physically Unclonable Function (PUF) which was achieved by identifying the randomly generated lattice symmetry-breaking characteristics within van der Waals topological insulators. PUF utilize the random physical variations occurring during the semiconductor manufacturing process to generate unique, physically unclonable identification keys. Considered highly secure, hardware-based encryption technologies, PUF are suitable for small Internet of Things (IoT) devices. However, conventional PUF have limitations as they require more complex hardware structures to increase the number of security key combinations. To overcome this, the research team focused on the unique characteristics of van der Waals topological insulators. A topological insulator is a material that behaves as an insulator internally but conducts electricity on its surface, making it highly useful in quantum computing research. In van der Waals topological insulators, inversion symmetry in the crystalline structure is broken, leading to a topological state with metallic properties on the surface. The research team employed a low-temperature plasma process to sulfurize the top layer of the material, inducing asymmetric lattice structures and randomly distributed ferroelectric domains. These domains exhibited spontaneous polarization, enabling the development of a self-powered, high-security PUF device. The research demonstrated that the PUF device achieved an optimal level of randomness, with a probability of approximately 0.5012 for generating “1” in a binary sequence. This randomness level is crucial for ensuring encryption security. Additionally, the research team verified that the size of the ferroelectric domains and the PUF device could be controlled by adjusting the plasma process parameters. Piezoelectric force microscopy (PFM) was utilized to validate the device’s reliability and reproducibility. The low-temperature plasma process also allows for large-area synthesis with shorter production times, making the technology highly scalable and suitable for commercial mass production. Professor Kim explained, "This next-generation quantum encryption technology, leveraging lattice symmetry- breaking characteristics in van der Waals topological insulators, enables self-powered, high-security encryption with a low-temperature plasma process. It will be a key foundational technology for future artificial intelligence and quantum security platforms.“ The research was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) and the Institute for Basic Science (IBS). The findings were published in Advanced Materials, one of the world’s leading journals in materials science, on February 18th. ※ Title: Stochastically Broken Inversion Symmetry of Van der Waals Topological Insulator for Nanoscale Physically Unclonable Functions ※ Journal: Advanced Materials (IF: 29.6, Top 1% JCR) ※ Link: https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adma.202419927 Schematic of stochastically broken inversion symmetry of van der Waals topological insulator

    • No. 293
    • 2025-03-07
    • 153
  • 김기현 교수 연구

    The Secret of Anti-Inflammatory β-Carboline Compounds Produced by Vaginal Lactobacilli

    A groundbreaking study by Professor Ki Hyun Kim's research team from the School of Pharmacy at Sungkyunkwan University (President Ji-beom Yoo) and Professor Smita Gopinath's research team from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health has revealed that Lactobacillus crispatus, a key species of vaginal lactobacilli, produces a family of anti-inflammatory compounds known as β-carbolines. These compounds play a crucial role in stabilizing the immune environment of the vagina. This discovery highlights the remarkable capacity of lactobacilli to not only serve as beneficial bacteria but also directly modulate human immune responses. Among the β-carboline compounds identified using the bioactivity-guided isolation, perlolyrine emerged as the most notable. This compound effectively suppresses inflammatory signaling pathways, including NF-κB and type I IFN pathways, in immune and epithelial cells. Additionally, it significantly reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-6. In mouse experiments, perlolyrine demonstrated a potent anti-inflammatory effect, reducing inflammation by up to 77%. Interestingly, these compounds were found in higher concentrations in the vaginal microbiomes of healthy individuals, while those with bacterial vaginosis (BV) exhibited significantly lower levels. This suggests that β-carbolines play a vital role in maintaining vaginal health and controlling inflammation. To validate the therapeutic potential of β-carbolines, the researchers conducted experiments using a mouse model of vaginal inflammation. The topical application of perlolyrine resulted in reduced inflammation and lower levels of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-18. The treatment also alleviated symptoms and improved survival rates without compromising the immune system’s natural antiviral response. Remarkably, the anti-inflammatory effects were sustained even during viral infections. Professor Ki Hyun Kim stated that this study underscores the potential of β-carboline compounds as therapeutic agents for treating inflammation-related conditions such as vaginitis and bacterial vaginosis. These compounds are unique in their ability to suppress inflammation while preserving the natural immune defense mechanisms, paving the way for the development of innovative topical treatments. Moreover, the findings highlight the broader role of lactobacilli in restoring and maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome. By leveraging the natural production of β-carbolines, the study provides a new perspective on developing probiotics and prebiotics aimed at improving vaginal health. The research team plans to further explore the therapeutic applications of β-carbolines, aiming to translate these findings into clinical solutions for inflammatory disorders. This pioneering work sheds light on the intricate interactions between human hosts and their microbiota, offering new opportunities to harness microbial products for health and wellness. This study was conducted with support from the Ministry of Science and ICT and the National Research Foundation of Korea through the Basic Medical Science Research Center (MRC) program and the Mid-Career Researcher Program. The research findings were published online on November 13 in the international journal Cell Host & Microbe (IF: 20.6), ranked in the top 2% in the microbiology category and 1st in parasitology and virology according to JCR. ※ Title: Vaginal lactobacilli produce anti-inflammatory β-carboline compounds ※ Journal: Cell Host & Microbe(IF: 20.6) ※ Authors: Ki Hyun Kim (Corresponding Author), Seo Yoon Lee (Co-Author) Figure 1. The schematic diagram for the discovery of anti-inflammatory β-carboline compounds and validation of their functional efficacy Figure 2. Discovery of anti-inflammatory β-carboline compounds through bioactivity-guided isolation. Figure 3. Validation of the anti-inflammatory activity of β-carboline compounds using a herpes virus-infected animal model. Professor Ki Hyun Kim's research team

    • No. 292
    • 2025-02-25
    • 435
  • 이세영 교수 연구

    Essential Competency in the AI Era: Development and Validation of the ChatGPT Literacy Scale

    A research team led by Professor Seyoung Lee from the Department of Media and Communication has published a study on the development and validation of the ChatGPT Literacy Scale (CLS). While ChatGPT has revolutionized information acquisition and creative activities, its effectiveness varies significantly depending on users' proficiency. To address this, the research team identified the key competencies required for effective ChatGPT utilization and developed the ChatGPT Literacy Scale (CLS) to systematically measure these skills. This study established a framework based on five core components of ChatGPT literacy: technical proficiency, critical evaluation, communication proficiency, creative application, and ethical judgment. The research team conducted a Delphi study with experts, followed by a pilot test with university students and a large-scale survey to verify the validity and reliability of the scale. As a result, a 25-item assessment tool was developed to comprehensively evaluate individuals' ChatGPT literacy skills. Beyond assessing technical proficiency, this research is significant in highlighting the social and ethical dimensions of AI literacy. ChatGPT literacy can influence academic achievement, workplace productivity, and creative problem-solving, laying the foundation for future research in these areas. Additionally, the scale serves as a valuable resource for businesses and educational institutions in designing AI-related training programs and policies. Given that AI plays an increasingly integral role in decision-making across various fields, the ability to critically assess and effectively utilize AI has become an essential skill. As AI becomes a fundamental tool for information consumption and content creation, a lack of AI literacy poses risks such as the spread of misinformation, a decline in critical thinking, and errors in decision-making. The development of the ChatGPT Literacy Scale aims to mitigate these challenges by providing a structured framework for responsible AI use. As AI technology continues to advance, ensuring harmonious coexistence between humans and AI is becoming increasingly important. This research is expected to play a crucial role in shaping AI literacy, guiding individuals and organizations toward more strategic and effective AI utilization. • Development and validation of ChatGPT literacy scale (Current Psychology, https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-024-05723-0)

    • No. 291
    • 2025-02-25
    • 519
  • 전일 교수 연구

    First Real-Time Acetylene Gas Sensor for Preventing Transformer Malfunction and Fire Accidents in Virtual Currency, AI

    Prof. IL Jeon of SKKU Advanced Institute of NanoTechology (SAINT) at Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), alongside Dr. Sihyeok Kim from Prof. Jeon’s group, has successfully developed a high-sensitivity acetylene (C2H2) gas sensor by embedding carbon nanotubes (CNTs) within a polyimide (PI) matrix. This sensor demonstrates stable operation without delamination, even under prolonged exposure to oil environments. Conventional metal-oxide-based gas sensors, commonly used for hydrocarbon gas detection, exhibit significant limitations in oil-based environments due to the extremely low oxygen content (less than 2%) in oil compared to atmospheric conditions. Furthermore, these sensors require high operating temperatures exceeding 300 °C and often struggle to distinguish between hydrocarbon gases with similar molecular structures. CNT-based sensors overcome these limitations through their large surface area and weak π-π interactions, enabling gas detection via physical adsorption driven by van der Waals forces, rather than relying solely on oxidation-reduction reactions. As a result, these sensors can operate effectively in oxygen-deficient oil environments while maintaining superior detection performance at the average transformer oil operating temperature of 90 °C. However, conventional CNT-based sensors face practical challenges, such as CNT delamination under prolonged environmental fluctuations, including mechanical vibrations and oil convection. Additionally, residual surfactants and nanotube bundling reduce the effective surface area of the sensing layer, impairing sensor sensitivity, response speed, and recovery time. Prof. Jeon’s research team has the FCCVD (Floating Catalyst Chemical Vapour Deposition)-based CNT thin-film technology exclusively in Korea, recognised globally for its excellence. With over a decade of continuous research in this area, the team successfully embedded high-quality CNT films into PI thin films, achieving sensors that maintain structural integrity and operational stability even under extended exposure to oil environments. Six months prior, the team published their world-class flexible CNT sensor based on PI in the prestigious journal Advanced Materials (IF: 29.4, https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.202313830). Figure 1. (a) Fabrication process of the Au-CNT C2H2 gas sensor embedded in PI (b) Image of the fabricated sensor To further enhance performance, the team integrated a multi-layer heater beneath the sensor layer to maintain the optimal surface temperature of 90 °C. The upper sensor layer was constructed using a thin CNT film with high gas permeability to maximise sensitivity, while the lower heater layer utilised a thicker CNT film to optimise heat distribution. The sensor demonstrated an exceptional response of approximately 10.4% when exposed to a 30 ppm acetylene concentration. Moreover, it exhibited rapid response and recovery times of 444 and 670 seconds, respectively, even under oil immersion conditions. Figure 2. (a) Sensor response characteristics as a function of temperature (b) Response and recovery times at varying temperatures (c) Sensitivity and linearity across 5-100 ppm concentrations (d) Repeatability at 90 °C (e) Hysteresis performance The research team confirmed that embedding FCCVD-derived CNTs into PI thin films effectively prevents delamination and ensures long-term operational stability in oil environments. They highlighted the potential for further performance enhancements through optimised CNT synthesis and integration with AI-driven analytical frameworks. This groundbreaking research was published on November 28 in Advanced Materials (IF: 29.4; https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.202410179), marking a significant achievement with two consecutive publications within six months. The project received support from the Ministry of Science and ICT, the National Research Foundation of Korea, and Prof. Jeon’s startup, JLabNT co ltd. ※ Paper Title: Highly Sensitive and Stable In Situ Acetylene Detection in Transformer Oil Using Polyimide-Embedded Carbon Nanotubes ※ Original Paper: https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/adma.202410179

    • No. 290
    • 2025-02-21
    • 336
  • 최경민 교수 연구

    Research Team Develops 70 GHz Ultra-High-Speed Spin Device: A Breakthrough for Next-Generation Magnetic Memory

    Professor Gyung-Min Choi's research team in the Department of Energy Science at Sungkyunkwan University (President Ji-Bum Yoo) has announced the development of a 70 GHz ultra-high-speed spin device based on antiferromagnetic materials in collaboration with Professor Kyung-Jin Lee's research team at KAIST. This technology is attracting attention as a core principle for the development of ultra-high-speed magnetic memory. Magnetic memory (MRAM) stores information as “0” and “1” based on the magnetization direction of a magnetic material, and the spin-torque is used to electrically control this magnetization direction. Spin-torque is a phenomenon in which the spin of electrons is absorbed into the magnetization of a ferromagnet when the electrons' spin is injected into the ferromagnet, and it is a physical principle for the transfer of angular momentum within the material (Figure 1). In ferromagnetic materials, the operating speed by spin torque is limited to the 1 GHz level due to the low resonance frequency of the material. This research team has developed a spin-torque device that operates at 70 GHz, exceeding the speed limit of conventional magnetic memory, by utilizing Mn3Sn, an antiferromagnetic material with a high resonance frequency (Figure 2). This study revealed how spins can be absorbed in chiral antiferromagnets, where the atomic structure has a rotating form. In particular, it showed that the spin coherence length, which is the distance over which spins are absorbed, is very long compared to conventional ferromagnets. This long spin coherence length has the effect of increasing spin torque efficiency (Figure 3). Professor Choi explained, "This research provides a concrete understanding of the spin-torque phenomenon between spin current and antiferromagnets, a discovery that enables the development of high-speed memory at the 70 GHz level." The findings of this research were published in the world-renowned international academic journal Nature Nanotechnology on February 3rd. This research was was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF) grant funded by the Korea government(MEST). ※ Title: Spin-torque-driven gigahertz magnetization dynamics in the non-collinear antiferromagnet Mn3Sn ※ Journal: Nature Nanotechnology (IF: 38.1) ※ Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41565-025-01859-7 ▲[Figure 1] Spin-torque-driven operation of magnetic memory (MRAM) ▲[Figure 2] Spin-torque driven 70 GHz pecession of Mn3Sn ▲[Figure 3] Spin-coherence length in chiral antiferromagent SKKU Prof. Gyung-Min Choi (left), KAIST Prof. Kyung-Jin Lee (right)

    • No. 289
    • 2025-02-17
    • 396
  • 권대혁 교수 연구팀

    Nanodisc-Based Therapeutic Strategy to Overcome Limitations of Neutralizing Antibodies Against SARS-CoV-2

    A research team led by Professor Dae-Hyuk Kweon from the College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering at Sungkyunkwan University (co-first authors: Dr. Jaehyeon Hwang and Soyun Choi, M.S.) has introduced an innovative strategy utilizing nanodiscs to overcome the limitations of neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. Neutralizing antibody therapeutics are effective in preventing infections caused by respiratory viruses such as SARS-CoV-2. However, their efficacy declines rapidly due to the virus's high mutation rate. This limitation is evident in the failure of many antibody therapeutics, both domestically and internationally, to neutralize emerging variants—particularly the Omicron strain—or their role in promoting resistant virus strains. Despite the global development of numerous antibody therapeutics for COVID-19 treatment, many have been discontinued due to their inefficacy against currently circulating variants. To address this challenge, the research team proposed a novel therapeutic approach using nanodiscs that bind to the Fc region of antibodies. The study found that neutralizing antibodies conjugated with nanodiscs exhibited significantly stronger antiviral activity compared to conventional antibodies alone. In animal experiments, complexation of nanodisc reduced viral titers in lung tissue by 100-fold compared to immunoadhesin alone. Notably, even weakened neutralizing antibodies regained broad-spectrum antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 and multiple Omicron variants when combined with nanodiscs, highlighting their potential as a versatile antiviral platform. Furthermore, Professor Kweon’s research team had previously demonstrated that nanodiscs significantly enhance the neutralizing capacity of antibodies against influenza viruses as well, suggesting a broader application of this technology. Professor Dae-Hyuk Kweon emphasized, "The loss of efficacy of neutralizing antibody therapeutics due to viral mutations has been a major obstacle in antiviral drug development. Our nanodisc-based technology offers an innovative approach to treating viral infections and can be expanded beyond COVID-19 and influenza to various RNA viruses." He added, "Many pharmaceutical companies are working on developing antiviral antibody treatments, and integrating nanodiscs could significantly enhance their chances of success." To accelerate clinical translation, the research team is actively collaborating with MVRIX Inc. to develop antiviral therapeutics targeting coronaviruses. This study was conducted in collaboration with research teams led by Professor Min-Suk Song (Chungbuk National University) and Dr. Sang Jick Kim (Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology). The research was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), the Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI), the Samsung Science & Technology Foundation, and the Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB). ※ Journal: Journal of Nanobiotechnology (Impact Factor: 10.2, Top 4.3% in JCR Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology) ※ Paper Title: Fc-Binding Nanodisc Restores Antiviral Efficacy of Antibodies with Reduced Neutralizing Effects Against Evolving SARS-CoV-2 Variants

    • No. 288
    • 2025-02-11
    • 486
  • 이진용 교수 연구

    Ultrafast Hot Carrier Extraction and Diffusion in MoS2/Au van der Waals Electrode Interface

    The research team led by Prof. Jin Yong Lee of the Department of Chemistry (co-first author Ph. D. course Hyundong Kim) has defined photocarrier dynamics of MoS2/Au heterostructures varies by their interface patterns through collaborative research with research teams led by Prof. Jihee Kim (Pusan National University). The research was published in Science Advances (IF: 11.7) in January 2025 under the title "Ultrafast Hot Carrier Extraction and Diffusion in MoS2/Au van der Waals Electrode Interface." The metal electrode is widely used where it requires specific electronic properties, such as light-emitting diodes, photodetectors, and solar cells. One of the useful ways to control the electronic properties is hybridizing with semiconductor materials; however, this can induce midgap state in interface and defect state in semiconductor, so that can reduce lifetime of photocarrier. This study addresses photocarrier dynamics of MoS2/Au heterostructures varies by deposition patterns by studying optoelectronic process including photocarrier’s recombination, transfer and transfer. In this study, experimental transient pump-probe spectroscopy and simulation have conducted on three different cases: 1. deposited interface, 2. rugged interface, 3. flat interface. According to the kinetics study, the flat interface showed the longest photocarrier lifetime whereas the deposited interface showed the shortest one. Photocarrier dynamics has depicted according to the spectroscopic data. Professor Lee’s team used density functional theory (DFT) calculations to elucidate electronic band structure of each case theoretically. Calculations of transition dipole matrix along band confirmed the difference in photocarrier lifetime. Through this study, it is expected to utilize controlling deposition pattern of semiconductor and metal electrode heterostructures for band gap alignment. *Title: Ultrafast Hot Carrier Extraction and Diffusion in MoS2/Au van der Waals Electrode Interface

    • No. 287
    • 2025-02-07
    • 729
  • 허진희 교수

    SKKU-Harvard Research Group Identifies a Link to Incident Colorectal Cancer

    A research team led by Prof. Jinhee Hur from the Department of Food Science and Biotechnology at Sungkyunkwan University (President Yoo Ji-Beom) has revealed, through a collaborative study with the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, that even light to moderate alcohol consumption* can increase the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). The study highlighted that light drinkers who previously drank 0.1-14.9 g/day of alcohol did not experience a significant reduction of CRC risk compared with those who kept drinking until they had quit drinking for at least 14 years. (*Defined as less than 15 g/day for women and less than 30 g/day for men) This large-scale epidemiologic study followed 137,710 participants of the Nurses’ Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study in the US for up to 38 years. The researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis of alcohol consumption with CRC risk while addressing the gap in the literature concerning drinking patterns, beverage type, and temporal aspects of alcohol intake with CRC risk. Prior studies investigating these questions have been limited by the availability of appropriate methods capturing long-term alcohol consumption and addressing induction period or time lag between alcohol and CRC risk. As a result, the impact of light to moderate drinking on health, particularly its link to incident CRC, has been a long-standing controversy. The study provided novel insights into this topic through comprehensive analyses of consumption, drinking patterns, beverage type, latency periods, and abstinence or reduction of alcohol and CRC risk. Prof. Jinhee Hur, a corresponding author of the article, stated, “While excessive alcohol consumption is a well-established risk factor for CRC, this study adds a unique value of public health importance by offering scientifically rigorous epidemiologic evidence pointing to even light to moderate drinking may not be safe.” She added, “Amidst confirming long-term adverse health consequences of alcohol consumption on CRC development, our work also showed that an extended period of quitting or reducing drinking is required to experience a significant reduction in CRC risk. This underscores maintaining long-term abstinence or reduced alcohol intake is necessary for effective CRC prevention and overall health promotion.” This research was supported by the US National Institutes of Health and the National Research Foundation of Korea. It was published online ahead of print in December 2024 in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. - Title: Drinking pattern and time lag of alcohol consumption with colorectal cancer risk in US men and women - Journal of the National Cancer Institute (IF: 10.0, top 8.5% in oncology) - DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/jnci/djae330

    • No. 286
    • 2025-02-03
    • 534
  • 권오석 교수

    N-Heterocyclic Carbene–Graphene Nanotransistor Based on Covalent Bond for Ultrastable Biosensors

    This study was conducted to develop a highly sensitive and stable biosensor for pathogen detection. To address the low sensitivity and specificity of conventional electric-based point-of-care test (PoCT) devices in detecting specific biomarkers, a graphene-based nanotransistor biosensor was proposed. A novel surface modification technique was developed to form a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) compounds on the graphene channel of a finely patterned field-effect transistor. This technique enhanced the chemical stability and bio-receptor attachment efficiency of the graphene surface. Using density functional theory (DFT) simulations, various derivative compounds were identified, and the bonding of different carbene compounds was validated both theoretically and experimentally. The most stable and optimal compound was selected and applied, demonstrating a robust and stable surface binding structure. Notably, the carbene compounds were designed to incorporate hydrophilic and hydrophobic layers, enhancing stability and reducing interference from non-target substances. By functionalizing the graphene nanotransistor surface with antibodies or protein receptors, the biosensor achieved highly sensitive detection of O. tsutsugamushi (the causative agent of scrub typhus), E. coli (a foodborne pathogen), and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19 virus) at concentrations as low as 100 cfu/mL and 10 pg/mL. Furthermore, tests using clinical samples demonstrated approximately 100-fold higher sensitivity compared to commercially available diagnostic kits, along with excellent reproducibility and performance. This study highlights the potential of this technology for rapid diagnostics in the era of emerging pandemics and high-transmission infectious diseases. A Monolayer (SAM) of N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) compounds on the graphene channel DFT Simulation-Based Carbene Compound Library Top: Detection results for Orientia tsutsugamushi (scrub typhus bacteria) and foodborne pathogens Bottom: Detection results for COVID-19 in cultured and clinical samples On-Site Hospital Validation Using a Portable Device Top: Negative pressure room testing, portable device, disposable kit Bottom: Performance comparison with LFA rapid diagnostic kit

    • No. 285
    • 2025-01-31
    • 423
  • 방석호 교수

    Professor Suk Ho Bhang’s Team Develops Novel Nanovesicle-Based Skin Regeneration Technology

    A research team led by Professor Suk Ho Bhang from the Department of Chemical Engineering at Sungkyunkwan University has developed a groundbreaking technology that reverses the functions of aged skin fibroblasts to youthful levels. This was achieved using nanovesicles (R-NVs) extracted from human adipose-derived stem cells irradiated with specially conditioned red light. The study overcomes existing limitations in skin anti-aging and wound healing therapies, offering new possibilities for regenerative medicine and the biotechnology industry. The research demonstrated that red light irradiation under specific conditions can be seamlessly integrated into current nanovesicle production methods. Furthermore, the team confirmed that these nanovesicles enhance skin regeneration and therapeutic efficacy by promoting cellular rejuvenation. The findings were published online in March 2024 in the prestigious pharmaceutical journal Journal of Controlled Release (IF: 10.5, JCR: 3.2%). Skin fibroblasts are crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and healing capacity. However, as fibroblasts age, their migration, proliferation, and wound-healing abilities decline, contributing to chronic wounds and other intractable skin conditions. To address this issue, Professor Bhang’s team proposed a novel approach utilizing stem cell-derived nanovesicles. The team found that red light irradiation (630 nm) increased stemness factors, angiogenesis-related mRNA/proteins, and rejuvenation-associated miRNAs within stem cells. Nanovesicles derived from these irradiated cells (R-NVs) demonstrated significantly enhanced therapeutic effects compared to conventional nanovesicles. Fibroblasts treated with R-NVs exhibited restored mobility and proliferation to levels comparable to youthful cells. This highlights the potential of red-light-based photobiomodulation to improve nanovesicle therapeutic capabilities and recycle aged cells for more effective regenerative treatments. Animal experiments further revealed that fibroblasts treated with R-NVs achieved faster and more efficient wound healing than those treated with conventional nanovesicles or even young fibroblasts. This innovative approach is cost-effective, utilizing human adipose-derived stem cells that are easily accessible and requiring no external chemicals or agents. The use of red light under specific conditions enables a simple yet highly effective method for enhancing therapeutic efficacy. Moreover, red light irradiation can be easily integrated into existing cell culture and nanovesicle production systems, offering a new platform for therapeutic product development. Professor Bhang’s team envisions that R-NVs could revolutionize the biopharmaceutical and cosmetic industries by addressing challenges related to tissue regeneration, anti-aging, and wound healing. While current fibroblast-based therapies in clinical use are limited to autologous treatments using a patient’s own cells, the natural decline in fibroblast functionality due to aging poses significant challenges. The R-NV technology developed by this team has the potential to restore the functions of aged fibroblasts, significantly enhancing therapeutic efficacy and paving the way for innovative solutions in regenerative medicine. Title: Fibroblast Function Recovery through Rejuvenation Effect of Nanovesicles Extracted from Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Irradiated with Red Light Main Authors: Dr. Jiyu Hyun (First Author) and Professor Suk Ho Bhang (Corresponding Author)

    • No. 284
    • 2025-01-23
    • 327

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