Dr. Guosong Hong.
February 3, 2025 - Vilcek Foundation
Guosong Hong’s work at Stanford University is at the intersection of the cutting edge of materials science and biological imaging. Using sound, light, and radio-frequency-based interfaces, he has pioneered new neuroimaging techniques. For his innovative research leadership, he receives a 2025 Vilcek Prize for Creative Promise in Biomedical Science.
In September 2024, Hong and his research team published a paper in Science outlining how the application of specific combinations of common dyes to biological tissues can alter the refractive properties of the water and tissues: This change reduces the scattering of light, which is what usually makes tissues look opaque. In doing so, Hong and his team were able to render the tissues of live rodents—including skin and connective tissues—temporarily transparent. This allowed Hong and his research assistants to observe and analyze the gut motility dynamics in live mice for the first time.
Looking to the future, Hong hopes to build on his discoveries to support further noninvasive approaches to imaging. “I envision collaborations with neuroscientists to create reversible optical windows for deep-brain microscopy, avoiding the tissue damage caused by conventional methods,” he says. “I aspire to work with biologists to develop optical windows in other body parts, enabling noninvasive microscopic imaging and light-based modulation of gut and cardiac activity.”
Guosong Hong (center) with members of the Hong Lab.
The Vilcek Foundation Prizes in Biomedical Science recognize immigrant scientists who have made important research approaches to solve the most pressing questions in biomedical science and medicine. The awards not only honor outstanding scientific achievement, they highlight the positive impact immigration and diversity have on the advancement of science.
