A newly installed scanner at the Lambe Institute at the University of Galway has been called a game changer in Breast Cancer research.
The state-of-the-art scanner can analyse up to 100 markers in a single tissue sample, dramatically reducing diagnostic time from days to hours.
The installation is the result of the partnership formed between the National Breast Cancer Research Institute (NBCRI) and Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), supported by CURAM Research Ireland Centre for Medical Devices and the College of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences.
“This is a ‘Game Changer’, says Director of Research at NBCRI, Professor Michael Kerin. “The scanner enables detailed analysis of individual cells within tumours, including those that may drive metastasis or express key markers that can inform more effective treatment strategies. The purchase of this equipment is a tremendous example of the strength of collaboration, demonstrating how organisations and corporate partnerships such as HPE can make a truly life-changing difference for patients.”
Welcoming the arrival of the multiplex scanner Sharon Glynn, Professor in Pathology, University of Galway said, "We are very grateful for HPEs huge efforts in fundraising for the NBCRI. The monies they have raised have made it possible for the NBCRI, CURAM Research Ireland Centre for Medical Devices and the College of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences to invest in this key piece of instrumentation, the Miltenyi Biotec MACSima spatial imager. This will transform our research into breast cancer diagnosis and novel therapeutic target discovery, providing us with new tools to improve outcomes for our patients."
Speaking at the scanners installation at the Lambe Institute, Paul O’Connor, Product Owner, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, said, “ The HPE charity partnership with NBCRI was a resounding success for both organisations, both in terms of the funds raised and the impact those funds will have. It highlights what a group of people within HPE can achieve together and demonstrates how we can support one another and our wider community. He went on to say ”Being able to fund an imaging scanner for the research team, which will help advance their work and ultimately benefit people affected by breast cancer, is a truly fantastic achievement.”
Patrick Casey, NBCRI, Director of Operations said, “NBCRI are delighted to make a significant contribution towards the purchase of this transformative machine, alongside the major support from HPE, as well as substantial contributions from the CURAM Research Ireland Centre for Medical Devices and the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences. This technology will allow our researchers to visualise hundreds of markers on a single tissue sample, preserving rare and precious samples while providing deep spatial insight. Ultimately, it will save valuable time, increase diagnostic accuracy, and support the development of more effective, targeted treatments for patients.”
The National Breast Cancer Research Institute is a national charity that funds a comprehensive research programme at the National University of Ireland, Galway.
Research has improved the diagnosis, treatment options, and outcomes for those who develop breast cancer. The charity funds these research programmes to continue to impact the outcomes for those who develop the disease. To learn more visit, www.BreastCancerResearch.ie
