Dr. Yang Tai-Hung wins TECO Award for revolutionary medical membranes

Dr. Yang Tai-Hung has won the 32nd TECO Award in the Biomedical/Agricultural category. The honour recognises his groundbreaking research on polycaprolactone membranes, designed to treat reparable pneumothorax. His work has also led to a simpler method for capturing circulating tumour cells, pushing forward precision medicine.

Dr. Yang's research on polycaprolactone membranes, published between 2022 and 2024, has gained attention in medical circles. Studies in journals like the Journal of Thoracic Disease show the membranes are both safe and effective for high-risk procedures. Hospitals in Taiwan and South Korea—including National Taiwan University Hospital and Seoul National University Hospital—now use the technology experimentally.

The membranes are not yet standard practice in major Western hospitals such as the Mayo Clinic or Charité Berlin. However, his work has earned around 150 citations, mostly from researchers in Asia and Europe. Beyond pneumothorax treatment, Dr. Yang developed a streamlined system for isolating circulating tumour cells, improving early cancer detection. Accepting the award, Dr. Yang thanked his mentors and the over 80 graduate students who contributed to his projects. He also credited his family, particularly his parents, for their unwavering support. Reflecting on his career, he emphasised that perseverance and a commitment to truth drove his successes.

The TECO Award highlights Dr. Yang's contributions to medical innovation. His polycaprolactone membranes and tumour cell capture system are already in use in select Asian hospitals. Further adoption could expand their impact on global healthcare practices.