# Nanoscale Tech Tracks Proteins to Accelerate Neurodegenerative Drug Discovery New NASTIC platform enables real-time single-molecule observation within living neurons for drug development. - **Source:** [Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories](https://brifing.si/source/8b0f98da-d179-4c93-871f-7ac460bf9c61) - **Published:** 2026-10-20 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/5e3776cc-10fc-4f37-9289-a4ac1408f4cb ## University of Queensland Innovation Researchers at The University of Queensland developed a specialized technology designed to observe disease-related protein behavior within living neurons. This scientific breakthrough provides a new window into cellular processes that were previously invisible to traditional microscopy. The platform aims to fundamentally change how scientists approach early-stage drug discovery for complex neurodegenerative conditions. ## Introducing NASTIC Platform The core technology, known as the Nanoscale Spatiotemporal Indexing Clustering platform, offers unprecedented resolution for biological research. By focusing on the single-molecule level, it allows for the precise tracking of proteins across both space and time. This level of detail is essential for understanding the mechanisms behind neurodegenerative disease progression in real-time. ## Commercialization via Accretion Bio The technology has transitioned from academic research into the commercial sector through the Brisbane-based startup Accretion Bio. This spin-out entity is tasked with scaling the platform for broader application in pharmaceutical research. By moving into a startup environment, the innovation gains the necessary resources to impact global drug development pipelines more effectively. ## Targeting Alzheimer's and Parkinson's The primary application for this nanoscale technology is the advancement of drug discovery for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. These conditions are characterized by complex protein misfolding and aggregation within the brain. By observing these specific biological events in living cells, researchers can identify potential therapeutic targets that were previously impossible to isolate. ## Real-Time Biological Observation Unlike static imaging techniques, the NASTIC platform enables the study of dynamic biological processes as they occur inside living cells. This real-time capability is critical because protein behavior is highly transient and context-dependent. Capturing these movements allows scientists to see how drugs interact with proteins in a natural, living cellular environment. ## Single-Molecule Resolution Benefits Operating at the single-molecule level provides a level of granularity that aggregate data often misses. By tracking individual protein units, researchers can map the exact pathways of disease development. This precision reduces the likelihood of false positives during the initial drug screening phase, ultimately saving time and resources in clinical development. ## Spatiotemporal Indexing Mechanism The platform utilizes spatiotemporal indexing to organize vast amounts of data generated during cellular observation. This computational approach allows for the systematic analysis of protein clusters over time. By correlating spatial position with temporal changes, the system provides a comprehensive map of protein activity that informs more accurate drug design strategies. ## Future Impact on Therapeutics The integration of NASTIC technology into drug discovery workflows represents a significant shift toward precision medicine in neurology. As Accretion Bio continues to refine this platform, the ability to visualize molecular-level disease markers will likely accelerate the timeline for new therapeutic candidates. This progress offers hope for more effective treatments for neurodegeneration. ## Sources covering this story - https://phys.org/news/2026-10-nanoscale-tech-tracks-proteins-neurons.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._