Biomarker evaluation and translation in the NHS-an NIHR applied programme in renal and liver disease
MP Messenger1&2, D Thompson1&2, C Sturgeon3, TC Wind1&2, RE Banks1 ,PJ Selby1&2, and co-investigators
University of Leeds, UK1; Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, UK2; Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, UK3
Website: www.biomarkerpipeline.org
IntroductionBiomarkers readily identifiable in body fluids using modern proteomic technologies could
potentially provide simple, accessible, and cost-effective tests for improved diagnosis, prognosis,
treatment selection and disease monitoring. However, mechanisms for identifying the most
promising biomarkers and taking them from the research laboratory into routine use in the NHS
are still poorly defined. To address this, the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) has
funded a unique prototype programme with the aim of developing a rigorous evidence-based
approach to protein biomarker evaluation.
While focusing on aspects of liver and renal disease, the strategy established should be readily
transferable and is presented here. There are many opportunities within the structure for
associated translational projects. These could, for example, involve applying similar infrastructure
in other diseases, or could form integrated studies within the same renal and liver disease
infrastructure, for example investigating the impact of pre-analytical factors. We would be
delighted to discuss ideas for any such projects with interested parties.
Clinical Areas Chronic Liver Disease•5th most common cause of death in
the UK
•Biomarkers for early diagnosis of
cirrhosis
•1040 cross-sectional patientsRenal Cell Carcinoma•200,000 new cases every year
worldwide
•Biomarkers of prognosis and
monitoring
•1200 cross-sectional patients &
500 longitudinal patients
Renal Transplant•2000 renal transplants performed in
the UK every year
•Biomarkers for early diagnosis and
monitoring of graft function
•400 cross-sectional & 300
longitudinal patients
Programme StructureInvolving a multi-disciplinary team of health economists, statisticians, scientists and clinicians, as
well as collaboration with colleagues from the diagnostics industry, the integrated programme of
research is made up of three main workstreams.
delighted to discuss ideas for any such projects with interested parties.
Collaboration Structure
Programme Funded By:
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