Gastric cancer screening in Japan continues to rely on double-contrast X-ray imaging, commonly referred to as the barium test, according to an Aug. 9 report. While this method is widely used, it can miss lesions, expose patients to radiation, and may cause discomfort.
Endoluminal solutions, Inc., a spinout from the University of Osaka, is developing a single-use endoscope specifically for gastric cancer screening. After completing a seed funding round in February 2026, the company accelerated work on what it describes as one of the world's thinnest and lightest endoscopes designed for screening purposes. The device aims to maintain image quality and insertion performance suitable for large-scale population use.
The project began with research led by Professor Kiyokazu Nakajima at the Graduate School of Medicine at the University of Osaka. Rather than modifying existing gastroscopes intended for advanced procedures, Nakajima's team used a zero-based design approach focused only on functions necessary for screening. Key areas of development have included an ultra-slim shaft and distal tip, a control handle, compact image sensor, and illumination system.
Physicians have assessed multiple prototypes for ease of insertion, image quality, and usability. The team reports that their system has shown the technical feasibility needed for effective gastric cancer screening. The slimmer design is expected to reduce patient discomfort while also lessening physical strain on healthcare professionals using the lighter device.
Because it is intended as single-use equipment, cleaning and disinfection between examinations would not be required—potentially improving infection control standards and reducing operational demands. The company is also investigating AI-assisted image acquisition and lesion detection capabilities along with digital platforms to manage images and data from screenings.
"Our goal is to establish a new screening infrastructure that allows more people to benefit from high-quality endoscopic screening," says Professor Nakajima, founder, representative director, and chief scientific officer of endoluminal solutions Inc. With four related patent applications filed so far, the company continues advancing toward commercialization.
