MICA: The Newcastle Proximity Laboratory

Lead Research Organisation: Newcastle University
Department Name: Translational and Clinical Res Institute

Abstract

The introduction of new scientific methods has shown that many diseases are much more heterogeneous than originally believed and that differences between cases can have a marked influence on the way that patients respond favourably to treatment. This has led to the concept of "stratified" medicine in which treatment is adjusted to meet the needs of individual patients. This approach ensures that treatment is only given to patients who are likely to respond and has both clinical and economic benefits, as unnecessary toxicity will be avoided and expensive new therapies are conserved.

The introduction of stratified medicine requires the development of diagnostic techniques which can be used in clinical practice. In order for a new test to be adopted it has to be validated using "real-life" samples and adapted so that it can be used reliably in routine clinical laboratories. For many tests this requires input from experts in Cellular Pathology. However, in recent years, due largely to service pressures, many clinical and non-clinical specialists in this discipline have been unable to dedicate time to maintaining their knowledge in Molecular Pathology or to undertake research themselves.

Our bid responds to the three areas for need identified by the MRC in order to ensure that the development of new diagnostic tests keeps pace with the demands of stratified medicine; restoration of the proximity between clinical and research activity; development of a clear path between discovery science and clinical application and addressing the training needs of laboratory staff.

PROXIMITY
We will establish a "Proximity Laboratory" in a busy NHS service department, which is adjacent to the University Medical Faculty, involving both University and clinical staff. Three satellite laboratories will be established in the Medical School and the Transplant Institute (Freeman Hospital), to provide a well-equipped training and research environment close to the discovery laboratories.

PATH
Initial projects undertaken in the Proximity Laboratory will build on current expertise in treatment stratification in the fields of liver, inflammatory bowel and mitochondrial disease and childhood cancer. An advisory panel will be established to assist research teams in the development of new diagnostic approaches and 2-4 projects per year will be selected for support to generate pilot data to underpin applications for validation by funding programmes such as those operated by the NIHR or MRC. Funding by the Proximity Laboratory will generally be for 1-2 years and monitored to prevent stagnation. Links with the Newcastle Diagnostic Evaluation Co-operative (DEC) will assist with the adoption of promising new diagnostic approaches by commercial partners, thereby helping to ensure the maximum impact on clinical practice.

In addition to the support given to biomedical projects the Proximity Laboratory will also promote research activity in the fields of biomedical engineering and computing science. Biomedical engineering projects will focus on the need to improve methods for handling small samples in response to a trend towards the use of minimally invasive biopsy techniques and will involve collaboration with groups based in our established nanotechnology laboratory (NanoLAB) and Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technologies Group. Collaborations will also be established with computer scientists in the Interdisciplinary Computing and Complex BioSystems (ICOS) research group in Newcastle University in order to develop new ways to present complex datasets in a way accessible for clinical application.

PEOPLE
Training in Molecular Pathology will be offered through a range of distance learning opportunities, up to the level of a Master's degree. In addition undergraduates will be encouraged to enter the speciality by offering bursaries for intercalated degrees. This approach will both increase capacity and help to augment the skills of existing staff

Technical Summary

Building on strengths in discovery science we will provide world-class training to a new generation of molecular pathologists, producing a step-change in the delivery of precision medicine. We will prioritise the development of in vitro diagnostics in chronic and rare diseases, ensuring pull-through to industry and clinical practice using well established links with the Newcastle NIHR DEC and our recent Proximity to Discovery Award. Our technical focus will be solving challenges posed by multiparameter analysis of microbiopsies, working with engineers in the Newcastle nanoLAB and Diagnostics & Therapeutic Technologies group. We will develop methods for the data analysis, interpretation and integration of results into clinically useful formats through collaboration with our Interdisciplinary Computing & Complex BioSystems research group and provide high quality samples for research partners using our established Biobank. Our main base will be in an NHS Pathology Department, ensuring close interaction with clinical pathologists. Building on experience gained with developing our Wellcome Trust Translational Medicine & Therapeutics Programme we will extend our e-learning Masters in Translational Medicine & Therapeutics to include a strand on Molecular Pathology, linked to the development of intercalated degrees for medical students to promote capacity building. We shall sit within infrastructure at Newcastle that includes the NIHR BRC in Ageing & Age-Related Chronic Disease, the NIHR BRU in Lewy Body Dementia, the MRC Centre for Brain Ageing & Vitality, the Wellcome Trust Centre for Mitochondrial Research, the MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Disease, an NIHR Bioresource in Rare Diseases and an NIHR Blood and Transplant Research Unit in Organ Donation & Transplantation. Programme Grant awards support research into stratified medicine and the biology of liver, musculoskeletal, neuromuscular diseases and cancer, ensuring a supply of novel approaches for further development.

Planned Impact

Work conducted by the Newcastle node will have commercial value and patient benefit and provide training to develop a skilled workforce in Molecular Pathology.

COMMERCIAL VALUE AND PATIENT BENEFIT

The main purpose of the Proximity Laboratory is to facilitate the development of novel tests for use in stratified medicine. With improved knowledge of the molecular basis of many diseases there has been a sharp rise in the number of therapies directed at specific, molecularly defined, subgroups. This fragmentation of disease classification has led to a rise in the cost of treatment to compensate for a fall in the size of the target patient group. In order to ensure future financial sustainability it is essential that targeted therapies are only given to the group who will benefit. Precision in prescribing also has health benefits as patients are not exposed to unnecessary and potentially toxic therapy.

The development of fully validated assays for use as a companion diagnostic for an expensive new therapy will have a considerable market value, as long as there is an actionable outcome. Deploying new assays requires considerable investment in terms of quality control and product support. Under the current system these can only be efficiently provided by commercialisation. The node will work closely with commercial partners to maximise the chance that new assays will be made available for exploitation whilst ensuring a reasonable return for the associated intellectual property for further investment in research activity. In addition, the activity of the node is also expected to lead to new methods of sample handling. With the introduction of improved methods for treatment stratification there is an urgent need to ensure that successful biopsies are obtained in as many patients as possible. There is also a drive towards reducing sample size in order to reduce collateral damage to normal tissues- for example in neurosurgery. This leads to need to improve techniques for manipulating small samples in such a way as to minimise wastage. The outcome of collaborative research in the node with biomedical engineers is likely to lead to new approaches with commercial value in the medical sector and beyond- for example in animal based research and veterinary practice.

The introduction of a range of 'omics approaches to accurate disease stratification poses a considerable challenge for presenting data with rapid clinical utility. Teams using the Proximity Laboratory will have access to computer scientists based in the University's Interdisciplinary Computing and Complex BioSystems research group and have the opportunity to develop novel ways of presenting data which make them easy to interpret for the non-specialist, and therefore of greatly enhanced value in clinical practice.

The link between the development of new assays for treatment stratification or methods for sample handling in the Proximity Laboratory and commercial development is unlikely to be direct therefore the timescale in most cases is expected to be 3-5 years. The timescale is expected to be much shorter in the case of software development where further validation by, for example, the DEC or via downstream funding is less likely to be necessary.

TRAINING OF A SKILLED WORKFORCE

The existence of a well-trained workforce will be essential for the development of the UK as a base for innovation in molecular pathology. The Proximity Laboratory will provide a focus for a range of training initiatives aimed at promoting molecular pathology as a career choice for undergraduates and for improving the skills of trainees and established members of staff. There will also be opportunities for non-clinically qualified staff based in the NHS and the University to be exposed to new approaches and techniques to add to their portfolio.

Publications

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O'Hara J (2021) Primary transoral robotic surgery +/- adjuvant therapy for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma-A large observational single-centre series from the United Kingdom. in Clinical otolaryngology : official journal of ENT-UK ; official journal of Netherlands Society for Oto-Rhino-Laryngology & Cervico-Facial Surgery

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Pell R (2019) The use of digital pathology and image analysis in clinical trials in The Journal of Pathology: Clinical Research

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Rees G (2019) Training and accreditation standards for pathologists undertaking clinical trial work. in The journal of pathology. Clinical research

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Robinson M (2017) HPV Testing of Head and Neck Cancer in Clinical Practice. in Recent results in cancer research. Fortschritte der Krebsforschung. Progres dans les recherches sur le cancer

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Robinson P (2023) The carbon footprint of surgical operations: a systematic review update in The Annals of The Royal College of Surgeons of England

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Sathasivam H (2021) The clinical utility of contemporary oral epithelial dysplasia grading systems in Journal of Oral Pathology & Medicine

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Sathasivam HP (2021) Gene expression changes associated with malignant transformation of oral potentially malignant disorders. in Journal of oral pathology & medicine : official publication of the International Association of Oral Pathologists and the American Academy of Oral Pathology

 
Description A pilot study to compare the RNA transcriptomic response of psoriatic skin to narrow-band UVB phototherapy in the morning and afternoon (PaCTS)
Amount £10,974 (GBP)
Organisation North Eastern Skin Research Fund 
Sector Charity/Non Profit
Country United Kingdom
Start 12/2017 
End 06/2019
 
Description Confidence in Concept- The Development of a Near Infrared Sensor for the Intraoperative Identification of Tumour Margins.
Amount £37,222 (GBP)
Organisation Medical Research Council (MRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 08/2016 
End 01/2018
 
Description Confidence in Concept- Validation of innate immunity proteins linked to pathogensis of necrotising enterocolitis
Amount £18,245 (GBP)
Organisation Medical Research Council (MRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 08/2017 
End 02/2018
 
Description Confidence in Concept-Integrating gene expression profiling and multiplexed immunofluoresence to quanity the microenvironment of classical hodgkin lymphoma in different age groups
Amount £36,212 (GBP)
Organisation Medical Research Council (MRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 07/2017 
End 07/2018
 
Description Functional and genomic characterisation of ultraviolet-B on involved and uninvolved psoriatic skin: application towards understanding of environmental stress effects on ageing and cancer risk.
Amount £118,487 (GBP)
Organisation National Institute for Health Research 
Department NIHR Biomedical Research Centre
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 02/2018 
End 01/2021
 
Description Funding for Dr Gaurav Dhawan, Clinical Research Fellow
Amount £46,412 (GBP)
Organisation Barts Health NHS Trust 
Department NIHR Biomedical Research Unit
Sector Academic/University
Country United Kingdom
Start 07/2017 
End 08/2018
 
Description Immune-mediated Inflammatory Disease Biobanks in the UK (IMIDBio-UK)
Amount £2,100,000 (GBP)
Funding ID MR/R014191/1 
Organisation Medical Research Council (MRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 08/2017 
End 08/2021
 
Description MRC Target Consortium Agreement
Amount £2,169,447 (GBP)
Organisation Medical Research Council (MRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 07/2017 
 
Description NIHR Research Capability Funding
Amount £105,844 (GBP)
Organisation National Institute for Health Research 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 08/2017 
End 01/2019
 
Description Newcastle/Genentech collaboration
Amount £0 (GBP)
Funding ID Contract in final stages of negotiation contract amount is commercially sensitive information 
Organisation Genentech, Inc 
Sector Private
Country United States
Start 03/2017 
End 03/2018
 
Description Pancreas Tissue Bank with Linked Clinical Data for the study of Diabetes Pathogenesis
Amount £2,100,000 (GBP)
Organisation Medical Research Council (MRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 08/2017 
End 08/2021
 
Description Personalised ultraviolet B (UVB) treatment of psoriasis through biomarker integration with computational modelling of psoriatic plaque resolution
Amount £250,000 (GBP)
Funding ID M651 
Organisation Rosetrees Trust 
Sector Charity/Non Profit
Country United Kingdom
Start 06/2017 
End 06/2022
 
Description Precision targeting of primary central nervous system lymphoma and its tumour microenvironment
Amount £272,192 (GBP)
Funding ID MR/X001415/1 
Organisation Medical Research Council (MRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 01/2023 
End 01/2026
 
Description Small Grant: A pilot study to compare the RNA transcriptomic response of psoriatic skin to narrow-band UVB phototherapy in the morning and afternoon (PaCTS)
Amount £9,914 (GBP)
Organisation British Skin Foundation 
Sector Charity/Non Profit
Country United Kingdom
Start 05/2018 
End 05/2020
 
Description Sponsorship from Eli Lilly UK
Amount £5,280 (GBP)
Organisation Eli Lilly & Company Ltd 
Sector Private
Country United Kingdom
Start 05/2021 
 
Description Atelerix/Rarecan 
Organisation Atelerix
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Clinical collection and consent support. Microtomy services and clinical trial procedures implemented.
Collaborator Contribution N/A
Impact Outcome provided in the URL above. Tissue ready development from research support.
Start Year 2023
 
Description Collaboration agreement with Reece Innovation Centre Limited 
Organisation Reece Innovation Ltd
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution The Node's Bioengineering strand will work with Reece to: ? - Miniaturise existing near infrared (NIR) sensing technology into a hand held device suitable for direct, real time intraoperative tumour margin detection; and ? - Conjugate a uPAR-specific antibody to a NIR-responsive fluorophore to produce a human carcinoma cell specific "contrast reagent"; and ? - Use the miniaturised NIR sensor in combination with the contrast reagent to selectively identify human colorectal carcinoma cells in culture and in histological preparations.
Collaborator Contribution Reece Innovation will provide £31,500 in-kind funding.
Impact The partnership with Reece began in February 2017 and is still in the early stages of development.
Start Year 2017
 
Description Collaboration with Belfast/CRUK Accelerator Award 
Organisation Queen's University Belfast
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution Queen's University Belfast, CRUK Accelerator programme and the Node jointly funded two students from Newcastle to complete a MSc in Belfast. The Node contributed £41,532 in fees and stipends for one student.
Collaborator Contribution CRUK Accelerator and Queen's University contributed £41,532 in fees and stipends for the other student.
Impact The two student's have completed their MSc courses with excellent marks and are considering applying to complete a PhD in pathology.
Start Year 2016
 
Description Leica Biosystems SLA 2024-2025 
Organisation Leica UK Ltd
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Yearly FFPE tissue supply set in the agreed SLA.
Collaborator Contribution Supply of FFPE blocks as agreed in the SLA. This can consist of tonsil, bowel,skin.
Impact Tissue supplied for control purposes.
Start Year 2024
 
Description Leica-supply of human tissue collaboration 
Organisation Leica UK Ltd
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution The Trust will undertake to engage patients and facilitate donation of excess human tissues such as tonsillectomy samples to its Biobank, with proper recording of consent. The tissues will be processed by a defined protocol to a uniform high standard. Histopathological sections will be examined by a consultant pathologist who will authorize release of the human tissue to the Biobank. The Trust will audit the process and arrange for cost recovery when tissue is supplied to industry. The direct arrangement between an NHS Trust and Industrial partners will facilitate good governance, ensure high quality and avoid risks associated with third party suppliers. The MICA is currently in draft form but an agreement from both parties is expected.
Collaborator Contribution Leica will receive the human tissue blocks and will handle the tissue under their HTA licence. The tissue will be used for quality control of existing products and for the development of new molecular pathology products.
Impact The MICA is currently in draft form but the potential collaboration with Leica has led to the set up on a Biobank in the RVI Cellular Pathology department which will supply tissue to industry.
Start Year 2017
 
Description MRC Target Consortium Agreement 
Organisation Medical Research Council (MRC)
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Public 
PI Contribution Newcastle is collaborating with Leeds University in a consortium agreement that also has links with Oxford, Birmingham, London, Bristol, Roche and X-Lab Ltd.
Collaborator Contribution The collaborators are working together to to establish the MRC TARGET (Treatment According to Response in Giant cEll arTeritis) partnership, a multi-institution, multi-speciality partnership with a common purpose of reducing glucocorticoid toxicity and improving outcomes for patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA). They will fund the Proximity Lab work.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare
Start Year 2017
 
Description NCRI- CM-Path Network 
Organisation National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI)
Department CM-Path initiative
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Hospitals 
PI Contribution Node PIs members of core educational work-streams and contribute to quality of pathological assessment within clinical trials and network development including regional engagement to improve sample processing for molecular testing.
Collaborator Contribution Node partners also contribute to quality of pathological assessment within clinical trials and network development including regional engagement to improve sample processing for molecular testing.
Impact Ongoing work to contribute to the quality of pathological assessment within clinical trials
Start Year 2015
 
Description Newcastle Research Fibrosis Group SLA 2024-2025 
Organisation Newcastle University
Department Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution Supply of fresh tissue liver on a weekly basis. Clinical collection/consent support.
Collaborator Contribution Benefit to research at the Newcastle University
Impact No impact reported at present
Start Year 2024
 
Description Node Proximity Lab Work- Bone Cancer Research Trust 
Organisation Bone Cancer Research Trust
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Charity/Non Profit 
PI Contribution The Node Proximity Lab completed work on the following project for a University researcher- - Preclinical evaluation of an MT1-MMP activated theranostic for Ewing's and steosarcoma
Collaborator Contribution The Bone Cancer Trust funded the research.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare.
Start Year 2017
 
Description Node Proximity Lab Work- CCLG 
Organisation Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group (CCLG)
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Charity/Non Profit 
PI Contribution The Node Proximity Lab completed work on a project for a University researcher-Characterisation of paediatric Hodgkin lymphoma: Pilot project to evaluate platforms to study HRS cells and the tumour microenvironment.
Collaborator Contribution The research was funded by the CCLG.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare.
Start Year 2016
 
Description Node Proximity Lab Work- NE Skin Research Fund LIVErNORTH 
Organisation LIVErNORTH
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Charity/Non Profit 
PI Contribution The Proximity Lab completed work on a project for the Node Director- evalute potential mechanisms of action in phototherapy for treatment of pruritus in primary biliary cholanggitis, also to investigate how it affects potential biomarkers and effects skin microbiome biomarkers.
Collaborator Contribution The research was paid for by the NE Skin Research Fund LIVErNORTH.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare.
Start Year 2016
 
Description Node Proximity Lab Work-CRUK 
Organisation Cancer Research UK
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Charity/Non Profit 
PI Contribution The Node Proximity Laboratory completed work for University researchers on the following projects: - Construction of neuroblastoma TMA for the CCLG tumour bank - Claspin mouse antibody optimisation
Collaborator Contribution The researchers were funded by CRUK.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare.
Start Year 2016
 
Description Node Proximity Lab Work-Wellcome Trust 
Organisation Wellcome Trust
Department Wellcome Trust Bloomsbury Centre
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Charity/Non Profit 
PI Contribution The Node Proximity Laboratory completed work on the following items for a University researchers funded by the Wellcome Trust. -Optimisation of AXL and SIGLE antibodies to perform multiplex staining with CD123 and CD3. - The changes in DNA and RNA in familial tumours. - 3D reconstruction of Basal Cell Carcinomas - Integrative Genomic Profiling of inherited Cutaneous tumours.
Collaborator Contribution The researcher was funded from a Wellcome trust grant.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare.
Start Year 2016
 
Description NovoPath (CEPA) Biobank - - UK NEQAS CPT 
Organisation UK NEQAS CPT
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Charity/Non Profit 
PI Contribution NovoPath will be supplying high quality material to UK NEQAS CPT for their renowned and respected Cellular Pathology external quality assessment scheme.
Collaborator Contribution UK NEQAS Cellular Pathology Technique (CPT) is a unique, world leading not-for-profit organisation and will use tissue provided by NovoPath to offer a comprehensive range of accredited programmes for all aspects of tissue diagnostics, for clinical and non-clinical laboratories and organisations.
Impact No impact yet
Start Year 2021
 
Description NovoPath (CEPA) Biobank - Achilles Therapeutics 
Organisation Achilles Therapeutics Ltd
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution NovoPath (CEPA) Biobank supplied T Cells/Tissue as requested by Achilles Therapeutics
Collaborator Contribution This tissue was used to facilitate a Clinical Trial carried out by Achilles Therapeutics
Impact No impact yet
Start Year 2020
 
Description NovoPath (CEPA) Biobank - Fibrofind Ltd 
Organisation FibroFind Ltd
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution NovoPath has human biological material, which has been obtained on the basis of informed consent for which FibroFind Ltd is conducting research and/or tests with this material.
Collaborator Contribution Fibrofind Ltd has developed a technology that allows prolonged use of functional precision-cut slices of various human organ tissues and apply their technology to liver, kidney and IPF lung PCS.
Impact This is a Multi-disciplinary between NovoPath, Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group and Fibrofind Ltd
Start Year 2020
 
Description NovoPath (CEPA) Biobank - Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group (NFRG) 
Organisation Newcastle University
Department Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution The NovoPath (CEPA) Biobank allow NFRG access to a supply of good quality tissue for their further research into liver, lung, kidney, heart, skin and joints research.
Collaborator Contribution NFRG uses NovoPath tissue to focus research on the discovery of molecules and molecular processes that regulate the formation, maintenance or degradation of scars in diseased solid organs. They particularly investigate the biology of myofibroblasts, these being the major cellular regulator of fibrosis.
Impact No impact yet
Start Year 2020
 
Description NovoPath (CEPA) Biobank - POCKitdx 
Organisation Innovate UK
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Public 
PI Contribution NovoPath (CEPA) provided samples for POCKitdx to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of a panel of biomarkers for LVO prediction.
Collaborator Contribution POCKitdx analysed the plasma levels of D-dimer, OPN, OPG, GFAP, vWF, and ADAMTS13 in LVO vs non-LVO. Diagnostic performance was estimated by using blood biomarkers alone or in combination with NIHSS-derived stroke severity scales.
Impact No impact yet
Start Year 2020
 
Description NovoPath (CEPA) Biobank - Tissue Solutions 
Organisation Tissue Solutions UK
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution NovoPath provide Serum samples to be utilised by Tissue Solutions .
Collaborator Contribution Tissue Solutions undertook a COVID 19 research project for which they used the NovoPath samples.
Impact No impact yet
Start Year 2020
 
Description NovoPath Proximity Lab - AMLo Bioscience Ltd 
Organisation AMLo Bioscience Ltd
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Proximity Lab to undertake comparative staining as requested.
Collaborator Contribution AMBLor to produce an innovative prognostic test for early stage cutaneous melanoma.
Impact • Validation of AMBLor diagnostic antibodies and manufactured kit (stability testing ongoing). • SOP production for automated immune-histochemical staining and analysis of AMBLor in non- ulcerated early stage melanomas. • Establishment and transfer of powered geographically distinct cohorts of AJCC stage I/II melanomas from UK, Spain, Australia and USA with AMBLor analysis completed in UK and Spanish cohorts. • Generation of data to verify additional clinical utility of AMBLor as a companion biomarker for adjuvant immunotherapy for AJCC stage II melanomas. • Acceptance and invited presentation of data at The European Association for Dermato-Oncology (Paris 2019, best talk prize awarded to P Lovat, ASC) (Chicago 2019), The International Melanoma Working Group (Lisbon 2019), and The Society for Melanoma Research (Salt Lake City 2019). • Public engagement including national and international press release (September 2019).
Start Year 2019
 
Description NovoPath Proximity Lab - AVACTA (2021 - Still Active) 
Organisation Avacta Group
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution NovoPath to provide Fibroblast activation protein (FAP), Immunohistochemistry (IHC), DAB staining on a per sample basis for internal and external Avacta clinical trial samples. Processing, embedding and microtomy of Newcastle trial samples or staining of external sample blocks or slides. All staining will be reviewed and reported by a consultant Pathologist.
Collaborator Contribution /
Impact /
Start Year 2021
 
Description NovoPath Proximity Lab - AmLo Biosciences Referral Service 
Organisation AMLo Bioscience Ltd
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution In partnership with CellPath at Newcastle-upon-Tyne Hospitals Trust (NuTH), AMLo has made its proprietary antibodies for AMBRA1 and loricrin available for a UKAS accredited referral service.
Collaborator Contribution /
Impact Clinicians in the NHS and private sector can now send melanoma patients' tissue biopsies to CellPath at Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Hospitals Trust for staining with AMBRA1 and loricrin antibodies to determine which early-stage non-ulcerated melanomas are genuinely at low risk of progression.
Start Year 2021
 
Description NovoPath Proximity Lab - Genomics England - The 100,000 Genomes Project (2021 - Still Active) 
Organisation Genomics England
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Public 
PI Contribution Providing H&E Slides from 232 100k patient samples to assist in their Research Project
Collaborator Contribution Providing H&E Slides from 232 100k patient samples to assist in their Research Project
Impact /
Start Year 2021
 
Description NovoPath Proximity Lab - Human Technopole 
Organisation Human Technopole
Country Italy 
Sector Charity/Non Profit 
PI Contribution Providing support of H&E stained slides, FFPE blocks when available and associated diagnostic pathology reports. This work is in collaboration with a team of researchers based at University College London. We plan to ship original ±fresh H&E sections to the team in London to enable scanning and analysis of slides. To explore possibility of digital file transfer.
Collaborator Contribution Prediction of outcome using digital pathology and artificial intelligence in inflammatory bowel disease
Impact No outcomes as yet
Start Year 2022
 
Description NovoPath Proximity Lab - Leica Biosystems 
Organisation Leica Biosystems
Department Leica Microsystems (UK)
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Providing service for TMA Construction
Collaborator Contribution Leica Biosystems is a cancer diagnostics company and a global leader in workflow solutions. Only Leica Biosystems offers the most comprehensive portfolio that spans the entire workflow from biopsy to diagnosis. With unique expertise, we are dedicated to driving innovations that connect people across radiology, pathology, surgery and oncology.
Impact /
Start Year 2021
 
Description NovoPath Proximity Lab - North East Innovation Lab (NEIL) 
Organisation Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Department Integrated Covid Hub North East
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Hospitals 
PI Contribution Working closely with the North East Innovation lab to look at ways of working collaboratively. Monthly meetings to discuss how to move forward together.
Collaborator Contribution Working closely with the North East Innovation lab to look at ways of working collaboratively. Monthly meetings to discuss how to move forward together.
Impact A smoother way of completing applications and a clearer route to gaining accreditation.
Start Year 2023
 
Description NovoPath Proximity Lab - Quality in Organ Donation (QUOD) 
Organisation University of Oxford
Department Quality in Organ Donation
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution Human pancreata samples from deceased donors without known pancreatic pathology (23-71 years, n=10) were processed and sectioned (4µm) within the NovoPath Proximity Lab.
Collaborator Contribution Determine ß-cell CFTR mRNA and protein expression in situ in normal adult human pancreas
Impact In situ CFTR mRNA expression in the unmanipulated pancreas is present in only a very small minority (<1%) of normal adult ß-cells. These data indicate insulin secretion is not mediated intrinsically by CFTR, signalling a need to focus on elucidation of exocrineendocrine interactions in human cystic fibrosis.
Start Year 2019
 
Description NovoPath Proximity Lab - RedX Pharma 
Organisation RedxPharma
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution NovoPath receive biopsy samples from RedX and then undertake diagnostic testing before returning with analysis.
Collaborator Contribution RedX is a biotech company and utilises the findings from NovoPath towards the discovery and development of novel targeted medicines for the treatment of cancer and fibrotic disease.
Impact No impact yet
Start Year 2020
 
Description Proximity Lab work - 3Helix Inc partnership 
Organisation 3Helix Inc
Country United States 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution 3Helix funded NovoPath to establish CHPs as a reliable stain for evaluating fibrotic progression in liver disease to replace existing histochemical approaches such as trichrome staining or Picrosirius Red.
Collaborator Contribution 3Helix developed Novel CHPs towards investigating this liver fibrosis project
Impact Unknown at this time
Start Year 2020
 
Description Proximity Lab work -North Eastern Skin Research Fund (NESRF) 
Organisation North Eastern Skin Research Fund
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Charity/Non Profit 
PI Contribution The Proximity Lab is carrying out research into the effect of UVB phototherapy in primary biliary cholangitis.
Collaborator Contribution NESRF provides funding for Proximity Lab work.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare
Start Year 2017
 
Description Proximity Lab work- Astrazeneca 
Organisation AstraZeneca
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Node CI and the Proximity Lab are contributing to immunohistochemistry work for a COMPARE clinical trial.
Collaborator Contribution AstraZeneca are funding work completed in the Proximity Lab.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare
Start Year 2016
 
Description Proximity Lab work- Bicycle and Cancer Research UK 
Organisation Bicycle Therapeutics
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Node PIs are leading collaboration with Cambridge-based biotech company to provide real time molecular testing for application of a novel MT1-MMP biological agent in a phase I/II CRUK clinical trial for patients with Sarcoma and other eligible tumours.
Collaborator Contribution Bicycle have provided funding and the biological agent for testing.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare
Start Year 2017
 
Description Proximity Lab work- Bicycle and Cancer Research UK 
Organisation Cancer Research UK
Department Cancer Research UK (CRUK) Oxford Centre
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Node PIs are leading collaboration with Cambridge-based biotech company to provide real time molecular testing for application of a novel MT1-MMP biological agent in a phase I/II CRUK clinical trial for patients with Sarcoma and other eligible tumours.
Collaborator Contribution Bicycle have provided funding and the biological agent for testing.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare
Start Year 2017
 
Description Proximity Lab work- Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Charities 
Organisation Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Charity
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Charity/Non Profit 
PI Contribution The Proximity Lab is carrying out research work for a preclinical evaluation of an activated theranostic for Ewing's and Steosarcoma.
Collaborator Contribution The NHS charity is funding the work in the Proximity Lab.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare
Start Year 2016
 
Description Proximity Lab work- Rosetrees Trust 
Organisation Rosetrees Trust
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Charity/Non Profit 
PI Contribution Node CI is CI of this stratified medicine study. The Node is a partner and is conducting biomarker replication and refinement on UV-treated psoriasis skin biopsies.
Collaborator Contribution Rosetrees Trust is funding the Proximity Lab work.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare
Start Year 2017
 
Description Proximity Lab work-Genentech 
Organisation Genentech, Inc
Country United States 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Node investigators are PI and Co-Is for this project that involved development of skin biomarkers for atopic eczema and their application to samples from a worldwide phase II study of lebrikizumab.
Collaborator Contribution Genentech has paid for the work completed in the Proximity Laboratory
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare
Start Year 2014
 
Description Proximity Lab work-Nascient 
Organisation Nascient ltd
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution Pre-clinical project to investigate Tenascin C as a potential theranostic in Sjögren's syndrome. Node investigator is a Co-I.
Collaborator Contribution Nascient has paid for work completed in the Proximity Lab.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare
Start Year 2016
 
Description Proximity Lab work-Resolve Theraputics 
Organisation Resolve Therapeutics, LLC
Country United States 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution The Proximity Lab is carrying out an analysis of salivary gland biopsy samples for a clinical trial studying Primary Sjögren's syndrome.
Collaborator Contribution Resolve Theraputics provides funding for Proximity Lab work.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare
Start Year 2016
 
Description Prpximity Lab work-Sir Bobby Robson Foundation 
Organisation Sir Bobby Robson Foundation
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Charity/Non Profit 
PI Contribution Collaborations with the Molecular Pathology Hub have enabled next generation sequencing of rare tumour samples.
Collaborator Contribution Funding for work that is/ will be completed in the Proximity Lab.
Impact The foundation stage research work carried out by the Proximity Lab can lead to new antibodies and diagnostic tests for stratified healthcare
Start Year 2015
 
Title Evans M (CI) Cardiff University, Jones T (CI) Liverpool University, Robinson M (Co-investigator). Post-operative adjuvant treatment for HPV-positive tumours (PATHOS). 
Description The main objectives of the PATHOS study are: To assess whether swallowing function can be improved following transoral resection of HPV-positive OPSCC, by reducing the intensity of adjuvant treatment protocols. The aim is to personalise treatment, based on disease biology (HPV status and pathology findings), to optimise patient outcomes. To demonstrate the non-inferiority of reducing the intensity of adjuvant treatment protocols in terms of overall survival in the reduced intensity treatment arms 
Type Support Tool - For Fundamental Research
Current Stage Of Development Refinement. Clinical
Year Development Stage Completed 2015
Development Status Under active development/distribution
Impact No reported impact at present 
URL https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02215265
 
Title Mehanna H (CI) University of Birmingham, Robinson M (Co-investigator). Phase III randomised controlled trial comparing alternative regimens for escalating treatment of intermediate and high-risk oropharyngeal cancer (CompARE). 
Description The CompARE study has been set up to investigate which treatment is most effective for patients who have higher-risk oropharyngeal cancer. The purpose of this study is to consider using additional treatments in conjunction with standard chemoradiotherapy to increase cure rates of higher-risk oropharyngeal cancer. This will be done by adding surgery or immunotherapy or more chemotherapy or higher dose radiotherapy to the standard chemoradiotherapy. Immunotherapy is novel approach, which uses drugs that encourages the body's natural defence system, the immune system to attack cancer cells. 
Type Support Tool - For Fundamental Research
Current Stage Of Development Refinement. Clinical
Year Development Stage Completed 2021
Development Status Under active development/distribution
Impact No other impact reported at present 
URL https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/crctu/trials/compare/index.aspx
 
Title Paleri V (CI), Robinson M (Co-investigator). MOSES pilot: head and neck squamous cell carcinoma unknown primary. Royal Marsden Hospital Trustees/Oracle funding. 
Description MOSES pilot: head and neck squamous cell carcinoma unknown primary. 
Type Support Tool - For Fundamental Research
Current Stage Of Development Refinement. Clinical
Year Development Stage Completed 2022
Development Status Under active development/distribution
Impact No impacts reported at present 
 
Title Rackley T and Evans M (Co-CIs), Velindre University NHS Trust, Robinson M (Co-investigator). PEARL: PET-based adaptive radiotherapy clinical trial. Cancer Research Wales Velindre Radiotherapy Charitable Funds (Moondance). 
Description PEARL: PET-based adaptive radiotherapy clinical trial. Cancer Research 
Type Support Tool - For Fundamental Research
Current Stage Of Development Refinement. Clinical
Year Development Stage Completed 2021
Development Status Under active development/distribution
Impact No impacts reported at present 
URL https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03935672
 
Title Shaw R (CI) Liverpool University, Robinson M (Co-investigator). Sodium valporate for the epigenetic reprogramming of high-risk oral epithelial dysplasia (SAVER). 
Description Sodium valporate for the epigenetic reprogramming of high-risk oral epithelial dysplasia (SAVER) 
Type Support Tool - For Fundamental Research
Current Stage Of Development Refinement. Clinical
Year Development Stage Completed 2022
Development Status Under active development/distribution
Impact No impacts reported at present 
URL https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34225765/
 
Description 'Molecular Diagnostics at Newcastle' 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The Node recently took part in the Newcastle University NAHP Industry Month with a day-long event to showcase Node-related work. The title for the event was 'Molecular Diagnostics at Newcastle' and it was held on the 2nd March 2017.
The purpose of the event was to bring industry together with the Node research community to identify potential collaboration opportunities around molecular diagnostics and image analysis.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
URL http://www.newcastlepathnode.org.uk/2017/03/molecular-diagnostics-newcastle-node-industry-event/
 
Description 'Under the Microscope' Diagnostics North East - October 2023 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Article provided by Claire Jones on an insight into NovoPath and her own background. Listed across all social media channels and on the Diagnostics North East Website.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://diagnosticsnortheast.org.uk/under-the-microscope-e04-novopath/
 
Description 3rd Joint Meeting of the Pathological Society and the Royal Society of Medicine 21-22 January 2020 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The Society hosts a major conference twice a year with outstanding speakers on a range of topics from basic molecular pathology to diagnostic practice and provides a forum for investigators across the world to present their research.The Society also has a generous range of grants that it awards to its members including PhD studentships, scholarships and travel support.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
URL https://www.pathsoc.org
 
Description 9th Digital Pathology & AI Congress: Europe 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Chris Kettle attended the Digital Pathology conference to actively interact with those providing digital pathology support and services. To explore further connections and highlight the NovoPath name.

About the event -

Hear 70+ presentations exploring the latest advances and applications of digital pathology. Learn how artificial intelligence and machine learning is being applied to primary diagnosis and clinical research. Discover how the image-based information environment is transforming the laboratory. Join an extended track featuring pharma and industry case studies.

One of four extended panel discussions examines how innovation and AI continue to drive advances in pathology. The popular roundtables will provide an intimate setting for you and KOLs to discuss a variety of themes such as successful digital implementation strategies, toxicological pathology, and digital imaging in pharma.

This meeting has a reputation for providing an outstanding networking experience. Plus, 45 leading hardware and software providers will be on hand to show you the very latest technology.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2008,2022
URL https://www.global-engage.com/event/digital-pathology-nhs/
 
Description A talk or presentation - Seminar Workshop 'Total Tissue Diagnostics' Megan Hamilton, Total Tissue Diagnostics. February 2023. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Presentation around the portfolio of Total Tissue Diagnostics and services provided.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
 
Description Attendance USCAP 1009th Annual Meeting 2020 'Eyes on you' 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Conference including Major Advances in the Diagnosis and Management of GI and Liver Diseases, short courses, interactive microscopy courses, evening specialty conferences, hot topics, the Timely Topics lecture on CRISPR Technology, and a highly prestigious presentation, Killer on the loose? Precursor escape and ovarian cainogenesis
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
URL https://www.xcdsystem.com/uscap/program/2020/index.
 
Description Attendance at Node Industry workshop and Director's meeting in Manchester 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact In June 2017, the Node Director's and project manager attended a Node network meeting hosted by the Manchester Node. This meeting included discussions on joint activities in training, health economics and bioinformatics as well updates on industry engagement and sustainability.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
 
Description Biofocus at the Catalyst - June 2023 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Attended on NovoPath's behalf by Caroline Wilson of the North East Innovation Lab.

BioFocus is a one-day conference, bringing together industry, academia, and experts within the field of life sciences.

BioFocus will inspire your business to connect, engage, benefit and grow.

Comprising conference, exhibition, and significant networking sessions, this event will provide a unique opportunity to hear about the latest technologies, innovations, key sector initiatives, and funding opportunities.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://x.com/innovlab_NE/status/1673956310692380680?s=20
 
Description Bioimaging/bioinformatics/machine learning 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact This was a 2hr workshop which would help shape our bid for strategic investment in this area. This opportunity helped us to learn more about how digital and computational pathology / tissue scanning fits in with research / practice. We wanted very much to understand what digital scanning, deep learning/AI and image analysis services we could bring to Newcastle, and how we could develop our services to keep pace with future demands.

This invite enabled all attendees to engage with this process and help bring together investigators and collaborators to discuss future directions. The outcome of the meeting was well attended and there was clear enthusiasm in taking this forward.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description Bionow Oncology & Precision Medicine Conference - November 2023 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Event attended by Rowen Coulthard, Biomedical Scientist at NovoPath. Stand shared alongside The North East Innovation Lab. Offering information on the services of NovoPath.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://x.com/novopathNCL/status/1724390219825213911?s=20
 
Description Bionow Pitching and Pizza Event - October 2023 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact This provides opportunities for key people from companies working in, or with, the life sciences sector to network and socialise with their peers in an informal setting over a slice or two. Attended by Rowen Coulthard, Biomedical Scientist at NovoPath.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://x.com/novopathNCL/status/1717212168867783100?s=20
 
Description CM Path Industry Day-October 2016 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The Node attended a part funded a CM Path Industry Day in October 2016. The programme for the day involved presentations around molecular diagnostics, the pharmaceutical industry and the adoption of new technologies in the NHS.
It was well attended by industrial representatives and healthcare professionals. The event has led to plans for future activity between the Node and CM Path.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
URL http://www.ncri.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/CM-Path-Industry-Engagement-Day-5th-October-2016.p...
 
Description Commercial Enterprise Workshop 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The objective of the workshop was to develop a standard and structured approach whereby we pulled information together about the proposed business idea, the market we are moving into, our financial projections and most importantly the recommendations for the next steps. During this 2 hour workshop we looked to focus on the key products or services that we feel could drive commercial value. Facilitated by the Director for Enterprise and Business Development, 2 x presentations were delivered triggering good interaction by attendees and subsequently embedded within the Node Business Plan which was submitted for approval at the end of March 2020.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description Diagnosis Matters Event 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact The North East and North Cumbria (NENC) Academic Health Sciences Network (AHSN) working with Voice North held a 'Diagnosis Matters' PPI outreach event. The event supported engagement between the NENC population and a variety of very significant initiatives bringing innovative practice and technologies into the Healthcare system.

Professor Andy Hall presented The Newcastle Molecular Pathology Node alongside two other significant initiatives -The National Institute of Health Research 'Diagnostic Evidence Collaborative', led by Professor John Simpson and The NHS England Genomics Medicine Centre and 100,000 Genomes, led by Dr Paul Brennan.

The presentations covered the practicalities, myths, technologies, consent, ethics, commercial involvement in technology development and some theory around how ailments and conditions are identified and treatments decided upon.

Common to all of the presentations and discussions was the virtuous circle of clinical practice informing and enabling research, the pull-through of that research into practice and the dissemination of the innovations and best practice as quickly as possible to help as many patients as possible.

Plans are now being formulated to build on the success of this event with potential to take the speakers to a series of other regional events to enable further dissemination of the message.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
 
Description Diagnostics North East Annual Conference 2023 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Attended by all team members of NovoPath.

An exciting programme of keynote speakers, interactive breakout sessions and exhibitors to unite a panel of experts to enable active discussion around the role of innovative diagnostics in addressing critical issues facing the NHS.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://diagnosticsnortheast.org.uk/annual-conference/
 
Description Diagnostics North East Conference Presentation by Alastair Burt 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Video Presentation by Professor Alastair Burt at the Diagnostics NE Conference on the transformational impact digital technology is having on diagnostics and health care and the need to bring the components together into an innovation hub, such as NovoPath.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
URL https://mobile.twitter.com/novopathNCL/status/1448233788492943362
 
Description Doctoral Training Partnerships Event 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact In October 2017, the Node hosted a DTP Molecular Pathology and Imaging training day. The day was attended by more than 50 students and included sessions on single cell genomics, pathologists approaches to immunohistochemistry and 'meet the experts' spin out discussions. The event received excellent feedback from attendees and we plan to host a similar event in 2018.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
 
Description EPSRC- Healthcare technologies event 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The EPSRC visited the Newcastle University to host a Healthcare Technologies event. The event included a presentation from the EPSRC Healthcare Team on their strategy and recent activities as well as showcase sessions from Newcastle University on current research.
The Node's bioengineering strand lead completed a presentation on his current research around developing a sensor to detect tumour margins in collaboration with Reece Innovation.
The event has let to further discussions with the ESPRC and the possibility they will use the Node's bioengineering research as a case study on industry collaboration.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description FRC Path Training Day-May 2017 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact Then Node part funded and arranged the FRC Path Trainee day. The training day is held for local pathology trainees 3 times per year. The day included presentations of the Node, molecular pathology of infection and molecular pathology in everyday practice. The event encouraged the trainees to investigate careers is molecular pathology and provoked interest in the Node's MSc programme.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
 
Description Fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists Training Day 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact Then Node part funded and arranged the FRC Path Trainee day. The training day is held for local pathology trainees 3 times per year. The day included presentations of the Node, molecular pathology of infection and molecular pathology in everyday practice.

The event encouraged the trainees to investigate careers is molecular pathology and provoked interest in the Node's MSc programme.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Global Business Development event-Roche 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Third sector organisations
Results and Impact The Node was asked to present at a meeting of the Global Diagnostics Business Development team hosted by Roche. The event was arranged to show case the vibrant UK Life Science sector to senior and influential global delegates.
The event included presentations from the Academic Health Science Networks (AHSN), National Institute Health and Care Excellence (NICE), NIHR Diagnostic Evidence Co-operatives (DEC) and the Molecular Pathology Nodes.
The event helped to cement at high level the UK life sciences model and prompted possible future collaboration opportunities.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Great North Research Conference - November 2023 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Attended by Claire Jones and Thomas Ness of NovoPath.

For the first time ever, colleagues from across the north of England are banding together to host an event that will showcase the brilliant life sciences and medical technology research that is happening in the north, as well as demonstrate what the north has to offer to these industries.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://x.com/novopathNCL/status/1727291487485112635?s=20
 
Description Health Economics Workshop 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Newcastle hosted a Cross-Node Health Economics workshop in May 2017. The attendees included representatives from the Node's, MRC, the NIHR DEC Newcastle and Health Economics experts. The workshops included themes trial design, informational requirements and whole disease modelling which allowed the attendees to discuss commonalities and cross-cutting issues.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
 
Description Implementation guidance for carcinoma of the nasopharynx and oropharynx. Royal College of Pathologists. 19th May 2022. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact This initiative has been developed following discussion at the Working Group on Cancer Services and in response to survey findings from cellular pathologists. Members asked for more support with the implementation of our clinical guidelines, and opportunities to feedback on them to identify areas of improvement.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
 
Description Industry Strategy Challenge Fund Launch Event 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Event to launch the "Investment in digital pathology, radiology and AI - part of the ISCF challenge "Data to Early Diagnosis and Precision Medicine" call. Attended by industry representatives and academic partners. Led to the successful award of a Centre of Excellence in Digital Pathology and AI (led by Leeds; £10.1M) which brings together the Newcastle, Manchester and Nottingham Nodes with three other northern universities and industrial partners Roche, Leica and Sectra.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
URL https://www.gov.uk/government/news/artificial-intelligence-to-help-save-lives-at-five-new-technology...
 
Description Industry workshop 'Molecular Diagnostics at Newcastle' 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact The Node hosted an industry event in March 2017 that was attended by over 80 represented from Industry, NuTH and University colleagues. The purpose of the event was to bring industry together with the Node research community to identify potential collaboration opportunities around molecular diagnostics and image analysis. This sparked further discussions with commercial partners which may lead to future project work.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
 
Description Informed Consent (CCB Meeting) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The National Cancer Research Institute's (NCRI) Confederation of Cancer Biobanks and the MRC Newcastle Molecular Pathology Node held a meeting entitled "Informed Consent in a Digital Age".

The aim of the meeting was to bring together patients, the wider public and professional groups in order to tease apart the key issues involved in obtaining consent to use human samples in research.

A series of presentations covered a broad range of related topics including; a brief background to the concepts underlying so called "fully informed" consent; the 'why' and 'how' consent is taken and the theme of appropriate timing to take consent; the experience of making contact with donor's families to request permission to obtain human tissue and; a powerful presentation from the point of view of a live organ donor.
Others included the position of the regulator - the Human Tissue Authority and the importance of sample-based research; the value of modern technology to support consent and; an overview of a computer-based model of dynamic consent to enable donors to access the level of information that they require to make an "appropriately" informed decision about giving consent.

The event was an opportunity for the Newcastle Molecular Pathology Node to demonstrate its ability to attract a wide audience from across the UK to debate and reaffirm the importance of human tissue collection, storage and analysis to the work of the Node and NCRI. 65 people attended in total.

Useful contacts were made with colleagues from Oxford University and a follow up conference call was held to explore the potential to work together on paediatric Biobanking proposals
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
 
Description Internatial Congress of the IAP 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The Node's training strand lead (Dr Dina Tiniakos) was asked to attend the European Congress of Pathology in Cologne. The scientific programme focused on the central role of pathology and its current clinical applications, translational research, near-future innovations and the longer perspectives of paradigm shifts (integrated 'omics' care).

The congress also provided a unique occasion for updating knowledge in pathology through up-to-date teaching courses highlighting news and views in diagnostic pathology.

Dina was also selected to orally present one of the Node's scientific posters ' Evaluation of centrilobular fibrosis in post-transplant liver: Preliminary results' which provoked in depth discussion and promoted the Node to an international audience.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
URL https://www.esp-congress.org/
 
Description International Academy of Pathology and Pathology Society 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact The Node had a stand at the summer meeting of the Pathology Society at Nottingham to promote the Node MSc programme. This provided a networking opportunity to promote the programme to over 400 pathologists and scientists. As a result there was a wider increase of enquiries into the Node and MSc. This also led to a joint PhD studentship with King's University Belfast.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Invited talk: "Physicians bridging Clinic and Research" 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact SFB 829 seminar series, Cologne, Germany "Physicians bridging Clinic and Research"
From bench to bedside and back again:
translation of inflammatory skin disease models; Sparked wide discussion about stratified medicine and mechanisms of psoriasis clearance
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
URL http://sfb829.uni-koeln.de/event/sfb-829-physicians-bridging-clinic-and-research-seminar-series
 
Description Launch of Diagnostics North East 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Node led two thematic presentations and workshops. >180 industry, healthcare and academic delegates attended. New commercial and research leads were established.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description Launch of the CEPA Biobank 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Patients, carers and/or patient groups
Results and Impact A half day event to launch CEPA via a series of talks on the impact of high quality tissue in diagnostic development, the role of the patient in the donation process and an overview on the origins of CEPA and work to date.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description Lecture Skin & Oral Disease BRC show case event 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The full day event brought together almost 300 delegates from across the Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals Partnership as well as attendees from a number of North East Hospital Trusts, research funders and national and regional research infrastructure.

Delegates heard a range of engaging and informative presentations from the BRC themes, as well as from the key leaders in the University and Hospital Trust Partnership and outstanding external key note speakers.

Professor Avan Sayer, Director of the Newcastle BRC commented: "It was a wonderful day and inspiring to see so many people engage with our work.

"From our theme leads, to our core team, students and partners, everyone was involved in preparing and making this day such a huge success.

"Impact to us is about making positive changes to people's lives through our research in ageing and long-term conditions, and this event was designed to give our stakeholders an insight into some of the fantastic work that is being funded by us with these aims.

"We're delighted to have had such great interest from people across the wider university and healthcare community, and we look forward to strong collaborations in the future".

Participants were equally enthusiastic in their feedback, some examples include: "Really enjoyable event, great to showcase all the excellent work going on in other areas of the NIHR BRC".

"It was great to see Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals presenting together the importance of joint working".
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
URL https://www.newcastlebrc.nihr.ac.uk/news/sharing-our-vision-at-the-nihr-newcastle-biomedical-researc...
 
Description Life as a Tertiary Centre Pathologist. Pathological Society Winter Meeting. Royal Society of Medicine, London 31 January-2 February 2023. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The aims of the event are to promote an understanding of disease through, exploration of tissues and disease models using single cell analyses, use of cutting edge microscopic and sequencing technologies, and maximising tissue interrogation by computational pathology and artificial intelligence.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://www.rsm.ac.uk/events/pathology/2022-23/ptr01/
 
Description Lunchtime seminar entitled Molecular Pathology: Future Horizons 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact In May 2017, the Node hosted a lunchtime seminar entitled 'Molecular Pathology: Future Horizons'. The guest speaker was the Director of the Institute of Pathology in Heidelberg University, Germany. The seminar was attended by over 60 people and prompted some interesting discussions around pathology and promoted the Node to a wider audience.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
 
Description Medconnect North Conference - October 2023 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Attended by Claire Jones.

Rediscovering the MedTech journey" aims to bring together over 150 industry and NHS innovators in an exciting day of networking, presentations and workshops on a variety of topics relating to MedTech research and the support that's available.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://x.com/novopathNCL/status/1712060952550457589?s=20
 
Description Medicines Discovery Catapult Launch 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact In January 2018, the Node co-director attended the Medicines Discovery Catapult's 'State of the Discovery Nation' report at MDC's headquarters at Alderley Park, Cheshire. The event provided the Node with with industry insights which will shape the future direction of drug discovery and early development in the UK.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description Meet the Scientist Event-National Pathology Week 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact The Node had a stand at a 'Meet the Scientist' event for National Pathology Week at the Centre foe Life. There was several hands-on activities to deliver, while telling the general public all about pathology and the role as a pathologist. Each activity had a short introductory sign, indicating how the activities flow from cells to tissues to organs, as well as associated equipment and information cards.

As the Node activities were so well received the Node plans to take part in 2017's Pathology week to increase public engagement with a younger audience.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Meeting with Histoindex 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Histoindex are a Singapore based company who have developed a novel technology for assessing tissue fibrosis in unstained slides using photonics
Collaborations with various research centres, including Newcastle, have produced evidence that the method can produce robust quantitative data which correlates well with traditional morphological assessment by an experienced histopathologist.

The meeting with Histoindex has led to a strengthening of the existing relationship between Histoindex and the Fibrosis department at Newcastle University.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Meeting with Sectra Ltd 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Meeting with Sectra Ltd to discuss engagement in Industry Strategy Challenge Fund Centre of Excellence in Digital Pathology and AI. Outcome was development of relationship to enable future activity and engagement in successful award of £10M funding for Leeds-led Industry Strategy Challenge Fund Centre of Excellence in Digital Pathology and AI.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description Molecular Diagnostics at Newcastle-Node Industry Event 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact The Node was asked to take part in the Newcastle University NAHP Industry Month with a day-long event to showcase Node-related work. The title for the event was 'Molecular Diagnostics at Newcastle' and it was held on the 2nd March 2017.

The purpose of the event was to bring industry together with the Node research community to identify potential collaboration opportunities around molecular diagnostics and image analysis.

The day involved presentations on current Node research (both biomedical and image analysis) as well as a slot on Tissue Access and the new CePa biobank which the Node will collaborate with.

Excellent feedback was received for the event which included attendees from an array of industries as well as key business development managers from the Trust and University. The event has led to several possible collaboration opportunities with potential industry partners.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description NCRI Cancer Conference Liverpool 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The Node had a stand at the NCRI Conference in Liverpool to promote the Node Clinical Sciences and Pathology MSc Programme. As a result there was a wider awareness of the programme and several enquiries were received from potential students.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description NCRI Confederation of Cancer Biobanks- Glasgow 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact CCB and CM-Path held a joint meeting in Glasgow on 17 October, on "working together" to maximise opportunities. The CCB has always shared best practice in a climate of mutual support. This is as important as ever in the rapidly changing biobanking landscape. The programme presentations from representatives of the CM-Path initiative, Newcastle Molecular Pathology Node, BBMRI-ERIC and the UKCRC Tissue Directory and Coordination Centre.

A pre-meeting for this event also took place in Glasgow between the Node Project Director and Project Manager in which the agenda was set and the launch of the CRUK directory was discussed.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
URL https://www.biobankinguk.org/working-together-collaboration-in-the-cancer-biobanking-landscape/?mc_c...
 
Description Newcastle Diagnostic Evidence Co-operative 'Adopting MedTech' Event 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact The Node participated in a 'soft launch' at the Diagnostic Evidence Co-operative's (DEC) 'Adopting MedTech' event at the Centre for Life. The industry-focussed event presented an opportunity to talk about the Node within the unique regional context of the North East, the only region with both a MRC Node and NIHR DEC. Presenting a coherent 'offer' to industry is often cited as an unmet challenge and this event was aimed at addressing this.

The Node had a well-supported stand in the networking area with colleagues from Cellular Pathology and BioEngineering on-hand to meet with delegates to discuss the Node and take contact details; there was a Q&A Panel where the Node was represented by Professor Phil Sloan - the Node Pathology Lead, and the Node was included in the conference programme including a biography of Professor Sloan and a section of the Node and its objectives. The event was well attended with over 100 local and national delegates.

The outcome was the collection of contact details which are being followed up, including a specific request for sample access from a key industrial partner and a telephone interview to discuss collaborative research opportunities.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Node Director's Event 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact In February 2018, the Newcastle Node hosted a directors event which included representatives from all Node's and the MRC. The purpose of the event was to share progress, discuss challenges and individual plans for future sustainability. The event prompted interesting discussions and the possibility of joint funding applications to the Industry Strategy Challenge fund.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description Node Director's event - 10th January 2017 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact In January 2017, the Newcastle Node hosted a Node Director's event at the Centre for Life. The event was attended by the Node Directors and Project Managers from Glasgow, Manchester, Edinburgh, Nottingham and Leicester. It was also attended by a representative from the MRC and CM Path.

The event aimed to build on the existing Node network by allowing the Node's to share their achievements and challenges through the first year of the project. There was also the discussions around Node sustainability and business planning beyond the current MRC grant award.

The event prompted discussions into joint funding applications and has led to another Newcastle Node Director's event being arranged for November 2017.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016,2017
 
Description Node Project Managers Meeting 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The Manchester Molecular Pathology Node hosted the first meeting of the MRC/EPSRC Molecular Pathology Node Manaagers' at Manchester University. All 6 Nodes were represented. Each presented an overview of their work strands, research themes and partners. The event provided an excellent oppotunity to agree how the network of Nodes will complement each other and work together. The outcome has been the establishment and further development of collaborative opportunities between the Newcastle and Manchester Node on both tissue sample access and training.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Node Sustainability workshop 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The MRC/EPSRC Molecular Pathology Node grant ended 31st August 2019 and we found ourselves in a transitional period where we could reflect on our achievements and experiences to date and look to the continued growth and success of the Node. Invites were welcomed for their input into this process during a 2 hour workshop with the aim of bringing together business leads, investigators and Node collaborators to discuss the future of the project within the broader context of Precision Medicine.

The aim of the meeting was to affirm progress on sustainability planning and proposed delivery structures and to identify areas of development which could support future collaborative working. Professor Alastair Burt delivered a presentation with some potential ideas covering a broader strategic development aimed at being the "innovation Hub" for tissue based diagnostics in Newcastle (and beyond).

The outcome of the meeting supported the development of a 5 year Node business plan and growth strategy which was delivered at the end of March 2020.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description Node Training Workshop- Liverpool 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact In November 2017, the Node project officer and training representative attended the Node training network workshop in Liverpool. The workshop gave the Node network the opportunity to discuss individual programmes, networking with other external bodies to influence national training and the potential of accreditation with the Royal College of Pathologists.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
 
Description NovoPath Presentation by Prof Burt to Newcastle in Vitro Diagnostics Co-operative (MIC) Group 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Overview presented by Professor Alastair Burt on the history, current and future of NovoPath - The Newcastle MRC Node. This presentation was requested by the Newcastle in Vitro Diagnostics Co-operative (MIC) Group to gain a better understanding of the services provided and the future of the Project. During the presentation there was interaction with all members and feedback was positive with potential collaboration with future projects.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
URL https://www.novopath.co.uk
 
Description OK to Ask-PPI event 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Patients, carers and/or patient groups
Results and Impact A Public & Patient Involvement event, which included 14 patient representatives from the Perspective group & the Cancer Research group, was held on the 15th August in the Maggie's Centre. This was also attended by a small group of NHS staff, the Newcastle Molecular Pathology Node and a HTA Regulatory Manager.
The agenda for this meeting was to gain patient perspectives' on the benefits to healthcare for collaboration between NHS and commercial partners' in particular regarding the supply of tissue from the NHS to commercial companies on a cost recovery basis. The public provided a positive response to the proposal which has led to the creation of a Node supported Biobank in the Cellular Pathology Department of the RVI in Newcastle.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Oncology workshop 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Oncology Workshop - showcasing our expertise in Oncology / Cancer research, and including NHS Observer Status to enable Industry representatives to attend NHS Clinics. Collaborations with industry were strengthened (new and existing relationships); 17 engaged external partners attended. Actively engaged in follow-on activities with partners. Poster / informal networking session gave attendees the opportunities to meet with ECRS, PG students, and the broader Newcastle Institute for Cancer Research community.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
 
Description Presentation by Marie Labus CEO AMLo Biosciences - June 2023 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Marie Labus presented 'The power of collaboration: Diagnostic product development' The AMLo Biosciences and NovoPath story.

This was held in the Cellular Pathology Department for academics and staff to attend. Also held via Teams for those further afield.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://x.com/novopathNCL/status/1673722975583973381?s=20
 
Description Presentation held by Emma Brown/Richard Hughes of CercaBiotech - August 2023 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Emma and Richard from CercaBiotech presented 'Mammatyper' A new molecular approach to sub typing breast cancer.

Presented within the Cellular Pathology Department for academics and staff. Teams link also provided.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://x.com/novopathNCL/status/1687467640942383104?s=20
 
Description Presentation on the Future of Precision (Tissue-Based) Dianostics in Newcastle 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact This presentation was given to Executive members for both Newcastle University and Newcastle upon Tyne Hospital. The content outlined a clear vision and mission to deliver innovation and promotion of precision diagnostics. The mission included technical services, innovation hub, development and equipment for the next generation of precision pathology, which would become a major strand of Diagnostics NE and a Centre of Excellence. Ambitious target growth was planned with an increase of 300% in turnover over 5 years. 23 recommendations were outlined, with anticipated timescales assigned. These included an Advisory Panel with key stakeholders from industry being involved, identification of Deputy Node Directors, an accountability framework and the improvement of a commercialisation strategy including the launch of a new/updated website.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
URL https://www.novopath.co.uk
 
Description Proximity to Discovery Dermatology/Rheumatology workshop 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Dr Amy Peasland, Newcastle Biobank Central Biobank Manager, presented an overview of the Newcastle Molecular Pathology Node at a workshop of potential industry partners during the Dermatology and Rheumatology MRC Proximity to Discovery (PtD) programme. The event was aimed at showcasing the excellent biomedical resources and facilities available in Newcastle and specifically considered issues such as combining basic research and clinical investigation in order to explore translational science; stratified medicine; training of the next generation of researchers and; collaborative working between industry and academia.

The workshop was held within a programme which encompassed themed lectures and a variety of specialist clinics and open discussions with patients and clinical staff on unmet clinical needs. The Node was positioned within the context of biobanking and sample access opportunities and contact was established with key industrial representatives from GSK, AbbVie, Roche, Lily, Novartis and Nascient. The PtD week was organised by the Faculty of Medical Sciences at Newcastle University during their 'Industry Month' of activities.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Seminar Workshop 'Beyond the Microscope' Professor Simon Herrington, Edinburgh University. January 2022. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact NovoPath in conjunction with Eli Lilly held a seminar workshop with guest speaker Professor Simon Herrington. Professor Herrington discussed the future of pathology.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://www.novopath.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/2201-Newcastle-Herrington.pdf
 
Description Seminar Workshop 'Optical Genomic Mapping with the Bionano Saphyr - Gavin Cuthbert, Cancer Lead - Newcastle NHS Genetics Laboratory - November 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Seminar workshop held by NovoPath with guest speaker Gavin Cuthbert around the evaluation of the clinical utility of optional genomic mapping in diagnostic haemato-oncology. Discussion around optical genome mapping using the Bionano Saphyr.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://www.novopath.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/NovoPath-seminar-2.11.22-gc.pptx
 
Description Seminar Workshop 'Roche Digital Pathology with UPath image analysis and Interpretation algorithms' - Connor Roddie, Sales Specialist - Roche Tissue Diagnostics . October 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Seminar workshop supported by NovoPath with guest speaker Connor Roddie on Roche Digital Pathology, empowering precision diagnosis.

Gave the Department and staff of NovoPath further insight into the use of Roche digital software and sparked further information to be sought around this.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://www.novopath.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/SWLP-Vision-Day-Digital-Pathology-Daniel-Plews...
 
Description Seminar Workshop 'The Business of Pathology' Colin Tristram, HistoCyte Laboratories Ltd. May 2022. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact NovoPath in conjunction with Eli Lilly presented a virtual lecture with guest speaker Colin Tristram around the Business of Pathology.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://www.novopath.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/The-Business-of-Pathology_MAY22.pdf
 
Description Seminar Workshop - MR 'Pathologists and Clinical Trials' June 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact NovoPath, in conjunction with Eli Lilly, hosted a virtual lecture with guest speaker Dr Max Robinson - Pathologists and Clinical Trials. Gave an insight into SPIRIT Path and opened up questions around this, pathology and clinical trials. Highlighted the presence of NovoPath to the wider audience.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://www.novopath.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/2021-SPIRIT-Path-NovoPath.pptx
 
Description Seminar Workshop - National Pathology Imaging Co-operative: 'Digital Pathology in the North and beyond' Dr Darren Treanor, Consultant Pathologist & Director, NPI. February 2022. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Seminar workshop supported by NovoPath with guest speaker Dr Darren Treanor around Digital Pathology in the North and beyond.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Stratified Medicine Network event, 'Re-engineering of clinical pathways to facilitate implementation of personalised medicine' 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact The Node sent two representatives the stratified medicine networking event which was well attended by NHS representatives, academics, patients, industry and members of the general public. Some of the talks at the event provoked discussion into the fact that individualised treatment will require substantial re-modelling of established care pathways and the role that NHS England must play in leading this.

Valuable contributions from patients pointed out that 'personalised medicine' means a lot more than understanding the genetic basis of their condition. Being valued and cared for as an individual is extremely important, and so from their point of view improvements to medical record systems to allow clinical staff from different organisations, such as different Trusts and GP practices was as important as improvements to diagnostics and treatments, as was being cared for by experienced staff who were familiar with appropriate best practices for patients such as themselves. It was noticed that gaining as much useful healthcare information from other patients with similar conditions as they obtained from healthcare professionals.

Following on from this event the Node agreed to attend further stratified medicine networking events to engage with the public and patients.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Surgical margins in Trans-Oral Robotic Surgery of the Head and Neck. The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. 13th June 2023. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Engagement with surgeons and oncologists to explain the importance of pathologists in decisions around adjuvant treatment.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
 
Description TC with Phillips 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Teleconference with Phillips to discuss engagement in Industry Strategy Challenge Fund Centre of Excellence in Digital Pathology and AI. Outcome was development of relationship to enable future activity.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description TC with Siemens 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Teleconference with Siemens to discuss engagement in Industry Strategy Challenge Fund Centre of Excellence in Digital Pathology and AI. Outcome was development of relationship to enable future activity
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description Taking biomarker discovery through to implementation - presentation at BIONOW Meeting 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Bionow is a not for profit membership organisation supporting the biomedical, pharma and life sciences sectors across the North of England. Bionow does this by bringing people together at our exciting conferences and events across the North, being an advocate for the North, and providing comprehensive procurement member benefits that strengthen the competitiveness of the North's innovative life science sector.
This presentation formed part of one of their regular events aimed at increasing awareness of the sector.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
URL https://www.bionow.co.uk/
 
Description Teleconference with GE Healthcare 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Teleconference with GE Healthcare to discuss engagement in Industry Strategy Challenge Fund Centre of Excellence in Digital Pathology and AI. Outcome was GE Healthcare engagement with Newcastle Hospitals Radiography bid for a Centre of Excellence and building of relationships for future collaboration.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description UK Stratified Medicine Event 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The UK Stratified Medicine Conference was organised by the Stratified Medicine Innovation Platform Programme Coordination Group consisting of the Academy of Medical Sciences, Arthritis Research UK, Cancer Research UK, Department of Health, Innovate UK, Knowledge Transfer Network, MHRA, MRC, NICE, NIHR, NHS England, UK Trade and Investment, Welsh, Scottish and Northern Ireland Governments.

The aim was of the group is to help ensure that, through coordinated action, the UK has the right environment to capture the patient and economic benefits offered by stratified medicine. Participation was an opportunity for the Newcastle Molecular Pathology Node to showcase its involvement in facilitating the development of novel approaches to treatment stratification and training opportunities for staff involved in molecular pathology.

Useful contacts were made with other partners involved in the evolving funding landscape, such as the Precision Medicine Catapult and other Molecular Pathology Nodes.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
 
Description UK TREND / Stratified Medicine follow-on Meeting, London 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact UK TREND Atopic Eczema Stratified Medicine follow-on meeting (hosted at the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) in London). This second workshop, convened to strengthen the work of the first workshop in specific areas, has resulted in more carefully defined work streams, and led to a greater understanding of the potential contributions from collaborators (including Pharma). Collaborations with industry were strengthened (both new and existing relationships); 7 fully engaged industrial partners attended, along with 3 patient representatives, and 18 potential collaborators from other UK Universities and the NHS. Five companies were represented - Sanofi, GSK and Croda (UK), LEO Pharma (1 delegate from Denmark) and Abbvie (3 delegates from US). Expertise was shared and feedback was extremely positive (93% of the feedback graded the meeting as 'very useful' 5/5 overall). The aim of the initiative is to develop a consortium with which to gain funding to further develop projects, and this is ongoing.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
 
Description Visit - Kristen McLeod, Director, Office of Life Sciences 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Policymakers/politicians
Results and Impact The Node and CEPA were selected as exemplar projects by the NuTH Executive Director of Business and Development. Ms McLeod toured the Proximity Lab and met our commercial partners. Outcome was to influence national policy and funding strategies around life sciences.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description Visit - President of RCPath, Professor Jo Martin 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Prof. Martin toured the Proximity Lab and met Node team members on a recent visit to Cellular Pathology. Outcome to influence Royal College of Pathology engagement and national strategic direction.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
URL https://twitter.com/JoMartin_path/status/1027246410612334593
 
Description Visit of Lord Henley, Minister for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Policymakers/politicians
Results and Impact Visit by senior policy maker to Cellular Pathology Department at RVI Hospital, Included Proximity Lab tour and industrial partnership showcase with Leica. Outcome was agreement for Lord Henley to influence policy and funding plans. Audience included AHSN.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018