Quantum technologies are finding applications in the medical field and pharmaceuticals, according to an analytical report titled “Quantum Technologies for Medicine” prepared by experts commissioned by Roskongress for the Future Technologies Forum – 2024. The document is available at RIA Novosti’s disposal.
“The potential of quantum technologies in general, and quantum computers in particular, has not yet been fully realized, but they will undoubtedly find their application in medicine,” the document states. Experts note that certain companies have already begun experimenting with quantum computing devices.
“For example, the methodology for genome assembly using quantum algorithms developed by the Russian Quantum Center, the company ‘Kubord’, and Genotek has significantly facilitated the study of new types and structural changes in DNA that cannot be detected using mapping methods, as well as genomic rearrangements in cancer cells,” the document says.
“The potential of quantum machine learning can be used to discover new biomarkers for cancer treatment. Several studies in the field of quantum machine learning are focused on genetic diseases – quantum algorithms have been developed that can classify genomic data much faster than a conventional computer,” the experts note.
Among the most promising directions mentioned in the report is the use of highly sensitive quantum magnetic field sensors. “With the help of quantum sensors, it is possible to measure and visualize biomagnetic fields, which could potentially allow for non-invasive and more accurate diagnosis of brain tumors, epilepsy, and Alzheimer’s syndrome compared to existing methods such as EEG and MRI,” the document states.
However, quantum technologies also bring new threats, particularly related to access to personal data. To protect information in the presence of a quantum computer, the implementation of post-quantum cryptographic algorithms is necessary, which would keep the data being processed confidential, underline the authors.
