HKBU Innovations Honored at Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions 

Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) researchers made a remarkable impact at the 48th Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions, held from 26th to 30th April 2023, with their groundbreaking research projects receiving prestigious recognition. The university's innovations garnered four awards, including three Gold Medals and one Silver Medal.

As a leading research-led liberal arts university in Asia, HKBU is dedicated to conducting cutting-edge investigations that push the boundaries of knowledge, address global challenges, and benefit communities locally and internationally. The award-winning projects from HKBU exemplify the university's ongoing commitment to innovative and impactful research, aimed at enhancing human well-being.

The distinguished HKBU research projects are as follows:

 Gold Medals:

 "Multi-mode photodetectors and methods of fabricating the same" by Professor Zhu Furong from the Department of Physics:

This innovation involves a multi-mode photodetector that operates in both the near-infrared (NIR) and visible light ranges, generating photocurrents in either NIR or visible light. The bias-switchable spectral response photodetector enables the acquisition of high-quality information through photocurrents, making it an attractive option for applications in various fields such as environmental monitoring, healthcare, agriculture, automotive, fishery, food, wellness, and security. 

"Bladder Cancer Photodynamic Therapeutic Agents with Off-On Magnetic Resonance Imaging Enhancement" by Professor Wong Ka-leung from the Department of Chemistry: 

This invention combines impressive photodynamic therapy effects (PDT) with robust in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal enhancement, enabling precise diagnosis and local staging evaluation of bladder cancer. The inclusion of targeting peptides and the "off-on" responsive MRI signal enhancement ensures high binding specificity and provides theranostic effects at the site of action.

 "A rapid and sample-to-answer AST microfluidic system applicable in resource-limited conditions" by Dr. Ren Kangning from the Department of Chemistry:

This groundbreaking technology addresses antimicrobial resistance through a rapid and sample-to-answer antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) microfluidic system. Specifically designed for resource-limited conditions, such as low-income countries lacking expensive instruments, thisinnovation allows for quick screening of samples within three hours using only a cell phone. It provides valuable information about drug-resistant pathogens present in the samples, aiding in timely diagnosis and treatment.

Silver Medal:

"An aptamer drug targeting sclerostin loop3 for bone anabolic therapy without increasing cardiovascular risk" by Dr. Yu Yuanyuan from the School of Chinese Medicine:

Osteoporosis, a metabolic disease resulting in reduced bone density, was the focus of this research. The team developed a specific aptamer that targets sclerostin loop3 as a treatment for osteoporosis. This aptamer effectively inhibits the antagonistic effects of sclerostin, promoting bone formation in animal models with osteoporosis. Importantly, it does not increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. 

The Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions is an esteemed global event dedicated exclusively to showcasing inventions. Over 1,000 inventions from more than 40 countries or regions were evaluated by a panel of professional judges, both online and on-site. 

HKBU continues to be at the forefront of innovation and research, making significant contributions to scientific advancements and the betterment of society. These awards not only recognise the efforts and expertise of HKBU scholars but also highlight the university's commitment to making a positive impact through transformative research.