PolyU Science in the News

Prof. Benedict Lo on challenges of commercialising research

Prof. Benedict Lo Tsz-woon, Associate Professor at the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, Presidential Young Scholar, and Associate Director of the Research Centre for Green Chemistry and Sustainable Catalysis under the PolyU-Daya Bay Technology and Innovation Research Institute, gave an interview to Hong Kong Commercial Daily, discussing how to overcome the challenges of commercialising research related to molecular sieve catalysts. Online coverage: Hong Kong Commercial Daily 港研超大孔分子篩催化劑 助惠州石化競爭力升級 21 May 2026  

PolyU Science researchers leads breakthroughs in protein-based data storage, delivering high storage capacity, strong stability and encryption capabilities

PolyU Science researchers have pioneered a method that uses engineered proteins to store digital data and, for the first time, completed the full process from data storage to data retrieval in de novo designed unnatural proteins. This demonstrates the potential of establishing a protein-based storage framework with sustainability, high storage capacity and high stability, offering a promising solution to the explosive AI-generated growth in data globally. Spanning the fields of protein engineering, synthetic biology, biochemistry, analytical chemistry and computer science, the interdisciplinary team is led by Prof. Yao Zhongping, Associate Head and Professor of the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology (ABCT). Other members include Dr Ng Cheuk-chi, Research Assistant Professor of ABCT, and Prof. Francis Lau Chung-ming, Associate Dean (Global Engagement) of the Faculty of Engineering and Professor of the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. The findings have been published in Nature Communications. Press Release: English | 中文 Online coverage: Mirage PolyU Advances Protein-Based Data Storage Solutions 14 May 2026 Hong Kong Economic Journal 理大首創 人工蛋白質儲數據 (subscription required) 15 May 2026 Wen Wei Po 理大研工程化蛋白質存儲數據　首實現人工蛋白完整寫讀流程 14 May 2026 Bastille Post 理大研發新型蛋白質分子存儲技術 應對數據爆發AI時代 14 May 2026  

PolyU Science showcases startup incubation and knowledge transfer excellence at Asia Summit on Global Health

On 11 and 12 May, PolyU scholars, startups and research teams participated in the Asia Summit on Global Health, engaging with experts, academics, investors and industry representatives from around the world through thematic forums, the InnoHealth Showcase exhibition and startup pitching sessions. Prof. Ma Cong, Director of PolyU Marshall Research Centre and Associate Professor of the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, joined the thematic session “Transforming Healthcare through Digital Health and AI Innovations”. He shared insights into AI-driven drug discovery, including the key bottlenecks and potential risks in the field. Seven PolyU startups, three research teams, and The InnoHK Centre for Eye and Vision Research showcased a range of medical technology projects and startup achievements at the InnoHealth Showcase. Meanwhile, three PolyU startups were invited to join dedicated pitching sessions to present their innovative technologies and application solutions. Press Release: English | 中文 Online coverage: Mirage PolyU Shines at Asia Summit, Boosts HK Health Innovation 12 May 2026 Bauhinia 「國際醫療健康周」亞洲醫療健康高峰論壇、香港國際醫療及保健展同步登場 12 May 2026  

PolyU Science develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer

A PolyU team led by Prof. Terence Lee, Associate Head and Professor of the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, has identified a protein secreted by fat cells that promotes cancer growth and has successfully developed a novel antibody that neutralises this protein, marking a significant breakthrough in impeding the progression of liver cancer. PolyU has filed a non-provisional patent for the developed antibody and is continuing to optimise its binding affinity to facilitate future clinical applications. Press Release: English | 中文 Online coverage: am730 理大研究：新抗體針對脂肪細胞蛋白 肝癌治療新方向 3 Feburary 2026 Ta Kung Pao 理大研發新型抗體抑制肝癌 3 Feburary 2026 Bastille Post 理大研發新型抗體針對脂肪細胞蛋白 為代謝相關肝癌治療帶來新方向 3 Feburary 2026 香港新聞社 港理大研发新型抗体针对脂肪细胞蛋白 为代谢相关肝癌治疗带来新方向 3 Feburary 2026 Line Today 理大研究：新抗體針對脂肪細胞蛋白 肝癌治療新方向 3 Feburary 2026 Hong Kong China News Agency 港理大研發新型抗體針對脂肪細胞蛋白 為肝癌治療帶來新方向; 香港理大研新型抗體抑制肝癌進展 3 Feburary 2026 etnet PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 Quamnet PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 Sina HK PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer; 理大研发新型抗体针对脂肪细胞蛋白 为代谢相关肝癌治疗带来新方向 3 Feburary 2026 AP PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 Channel News Asia PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 The National Tribune PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 CRWE World PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 Asia Insider PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 Mirage PolyU Unveils Antibody Targeting Liver Cancer Protein 3 Feburary 2026 Media Outreach PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 IT News Online PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 Alvinology Media PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 BizWire Express PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 News Patrolling PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 The Smart Investor PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer; 理大研发新型抗体针对脂肪细胞蛋白 为代谢相关肝癌治疗带来新方向 3 Feburary 2026 DB Power PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 The Manila Times PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 Viet Nam News PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 Biz Hub PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 Siam News PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 ZAWYA PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026 WN PolyU develops novel antibody targeting fat cell protein, offering new approach to treating metabolism-related liver cancer 3 Feburary 2026  

Top journal Advanced Materials presents high-quality papers on Materials Science at PolyU

The special issue of Advanced Materials celebrates the 30th anniversary of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), showcasing 28 high-quality papers on materials science. PolyU is renowned for its professional education, applied research, and international collaborations, ranking 54th in the QS World University Rankings 2026. With over 420 scholars among the world’s top 2% most-cited scientists, PolyU demonstrates a strong commitment to innovation and societal impact, supported by extensive research infrastructure and global partnerships. This issue features a collection of 19 reviews, 8 research articles, and 1 perspective, covering various aspects of materials science spanning advanced manufacturing, electronic materials, energy solutions, and wearable technologies. Highlighting PolyU’s strategic vision, the publication emphasizes the importance of bridging fundamental theories with engineering technologies. The university aims to foster deeper collaborations and push the boundaries of materials science, expressing gratitude to all contributors to this special issue. Read the full issue: Special Issue: Materials Research at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (Advanced Materials: Volume 37, Issue 48)

PolyU and AFCD sign MoU to boost sustainable agriculture and fisheries innovation

PolyU and the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) signed an MoU yesterday (22 September 2025) to explore collaborative opportunities in the development and application areas of technological innovation for agriculture and fisheries, with both parties working together to promote the sustainable development of the local agriculture and fisheries industries, injecting new impetus into the industries. The MoU establishes a framework for collaboration between the AFCD and PolyU over the next five years to jointly advance innovative development initiatives for the agriculture and fisheries industries, enhancing the quantity, quality, and value of local agricultural and fisheries products. Online coverage: Bastille Post AFCD and PolyU Sign MOU to Boost Sustainable Agriculture and Fisheries Innovation in Hong Kong 22 September 2025 Sina HK 漁護署與理大簽訂合作備忘錄　以科技創新推動香港漁農業可持續發展 22 September 2025  

Prof. Wong Ka-hing featured on TVB programme about turning food waste into 3D printing materials

Prof. Wong Ka-hing, Director of PolyU Research Institute for Future Food, Associate Director of PolyU-Jinjiang Technology and Innovation Research Institute & Professor at the Department of Food Science and Nutrition, was featured on TVB’s programme “ESG Decoded”, introducing the novel technology that upcycles major commercial & industrial food waste like spent coffee grounds into sustainable composite materials for 3D printing. Online coverage: TVB 破局密碼ESG - 第 1 集 金融•科技新常態 (13:56-16:38) (subscription required) 21 September 2025  

Prof. Daniel Lau interviewed by RTHK’s radio programme “World in a Nutshell” on osmotic power

Prof. Daniel Lau, Associate Director of Photonics Research Institute & Chair Professor of Nanomaterials of the Department of Applied Physics, was interviewed by RTHK’s radio programme “World in a Nutshell” to expound upon the theory, prospect and challenges of osmotic power. Online coverage: RTHK 十萬八千里 -「滲透能」發電發展潛力及應用條件 (22:17 - 36:50) 20 September 2025  

Dr Nano Cheng redefines coffee with ultrasonic extraction technology

The mushroom-infused coffee developed by Mushroom Innovation Tech Limited was featured on Fan Piece. The startup was established by Dr Nano Cheng Wai-yin, Research Assistant Professor at the Department of Food Science and Nutrition. The company leverages ultrasonic extraction technology to redefine the functional beverage landscape. It revolutionises the food and beverage industry by creating innovative, health-enhancing products infused with the natural benefits of mushrooms, providing consumers with functional and delicious options that promote well-being and vitality. Online coverage: Fan Piece 在咖啡香裡「種」出健康！香港品牌 Made From Mushroom 的蘑菇革命 27 August 2025 Yahoo HK 在咖啡香裡「種」出健康！香港品牌 Made From Mushroom 的蘑菇革命 27 August 2025  

Prof. Daniel Lau on dual vision to convert carbon dioxide into diverse products

Prof. Daniel Lau Shu-ping, Director of University Research Facility in Materials Characterization and Device Fabrication, Associate Director of Photonics Research Institute & Chair Professor of Nanomaterials, was interviewed by China Daily on his visions of converting carbon dioxide into a widely used, colorless gas scaled big enough for industrial use, and also shrinking it to the point where it can be used for space missions. Online coverage: China Daily PIONEERING GREEN TECH EYES SPACE APPLICATION, INDUSTRY BOOST 26 August 2025