1. Issue 29
Spring 2011
nexxusscotland.com
Connecting, communicating & informing life sciences in Scotland
New biologics 05
Angel Biotechnology equipped to respond to changing market needs
Matters of the heart 08
hospital one of largest cardiothoracic centres in Europe
Grampian BioPartners 12
scientists turned investors provide invaluable
help to SMEs
Stepping out 14
Glasgow Caledonian University co-ordinates
multinational, interdisciplinary project
tiny lights making 10
a big impact in life
science applications

2. 2 Nexxus News
Nexxus Events
March 2011
Sharing reaps rewards
CoMMErCIALISAtIoN
StrAtEGIES for benefit of industry and academia. fundamental value of a piece of
MoLECULAr dIAGNoStICS It was a busy and very productive science and research. I would
Glasgow three days and thank you to suggest that both Andy’s
everyone involved, especially to presentation and NuCana BioMed
tECHNoLoGY-PUSH or Den Barrault of SULSA for project Hugh Griffith’s call for a ‘proof of
CLINICAL-PULL managing the visit. relevance’ fund at the Scottish
How to deliver innovation in Enterprise Life Sciences dinner,
NHS Scotland, Edinburgh Scotland has placed itself in a give a clear direction for the future
globally competitive position of investment in our sector. It is
NEXXUS BIoSCIENCE CLUB through research collaboration one that we need to work together
Industry Skills for Young and Nexxus aims to develop even on to make happen.
Academics, Glasgow closer links with our research
pools and the Universities they As part of the process of
April 2011
represent. encouraging investment in the life
CoMPANIES SHoWCASE
sciences in Scotland, Nexxus
Edinburgh
AN UNfortUNAtE ACCIdENt February also saw our second organised a delegation of Scottish
involving me, a mountain in event with the WS Society for the SMEs to the OneNucleus Genesis
NEXXUS BIoSCIENCE CLUB
Lanzarote and the force of gravity Life Sciences and Law Network conference in London at the end
Career Paths in Life Sciences,
Glasgow
meant that I had an unexpected (LSLN). The LSLN is based upon of last year. This event is a
trip (pun intended!) to my local the premise that sharing ‘must-do’ in many people’s
May 2011 hospital earlier this week. knowledge between Scotland’s life calendars. It proved to be a winner
SME tooLBoX Thankfully this is something I have scientists and the country’s legal with many new contacts made and
Drug development/Clinical not had to do for many years and professionals is key to contracts secured (see page 15
Trials, Glasgow it was a revelation. The courtesy development and investment in for details of just one success
and kindness of the staff was the sector. We were fortunate to story). Currently we are working
HorIZoNS IN MEdtECH exemplary and the facilities tip-top. secure the services of Professor with Scottish Enterprise and
Glasgow I was admitted, examined, x-rayed Andy Porter and James Shaw of Scottish Development
and ‘stookied’ (eg plaster cast) all Grampian BioPartners (see page International and using our strong
6tH ANNUAL CoNVErGENt in an hour. I was especially taken 12). They gave a thought- links with BayBio - the San
tECHNoLoGY SHoWCASE by the fact that the x-ray was provoking presentation on Francisco Bay area life sciences
ANd CoNfErENCE* real-time and shared remotely with de-risking life science investment network - to secure face-to-face
Healthcare Efficiency through the orthopaedic consultant - all by sharing knowledge on the meetings for Scottish SMEs with
Prevention and Intervention, part of a seamless and speedy
Stirling (Jointly organised by service.
EDTC, SHIL, SUIP, Wellness
& Health Innovation and Nexxus)
This brought home to me just how
much sharing of information and
June 2011
knowledge is changing the face of
NEXXUS BBQ
healthcare and the life sciences.
Glasgow
It also chimes with a number of
For further info about the above recent developments within
free (except*) events see Nexxus.
www.nexxusscotland.com
Early in February, Nexxus along
with SULSA, SINAPSE and the
Other Scottish Scottish Bioinformatics Forum was
Events pleased to host a visit by members
of the European ShareBiotech
Annual SULSA Symposium
7 June 2011, Glasgow project. The aim of the project is to
www.sulsa.ac.uk/ create an international network of
symposium2011 bioscience facilities across the European ShareBiotech Group
meets with Dave Wyper, SINAPSE
Atlantic region of Europe to the
nexxusscotland.com

3. Nexxus News 3
boutique Venture Capital investors sure everyone working in life
Zebrafish Facility
in the West Coast USA. Watch this science would agree with this
space for further developments. observation but would also
conclude that it is not just the
In addition, Nexxus is working with quantity, but also the quality, of
partner organisations such as the thought that counts. In Scotland tHE ZEBrAfISH, Danio
Scottish Stem Cell Network we are fortunate to have both and rerio, is a powerful model
(SSCN) and Scottish Health it is by linking together and sharing organism for biomedical
Innovations (SHIL) to provide a ideas that we will further enhance research. Its genome
series of industry related events our position as a global player. is known and there are
on crucial topics such as quality many genome features
management and regulatory conserved in humans.
compliance. We are keen to Accordingly, Zebrafish
continue with this and would be are increasingly used as
pleased to work with other a model to study human
members of the community. Graeme Boyle diseases and to date
Director cardiovascular disease,
Linus Pauling once commented T: 0131 200 6411 or cancer, neurodegenerative of disease-associated
that the best way to have a good T: 0141 300 5381 and infectious disease and variants and large-scale
idea is to have lots of ideas. I am E: g.boyle@nexxusscotland.com visual disorders have been screening of a small
studied. It is a particularly chemical library for the
attractive experimental identification of therapeutic
Cancer system due to its rapid
and external development,
candidates. Professor
John Craft meantime will
discovery coupled with optical clarity
during embryogenesis.
use the system to study
reproduction in fish and
ProfESSor HING LEUNG, will characterise the
of the College of Medical, The Glasgow Caledonian mechanisms of differential
Veterinary and Life Sciences, University Zebrafish expression of the multiple
University of Glasgow, has the clinic. In addition, when Facility is an advanced vitellogenin genes and
discovered how a protein we increased the amount high capacity aquarium define the function of each
present in prostate cancer cells of ERK5 in prostate cancer system developed for gene. He also intends
drives growth of the disease. cells, again in the laboratory, the maintenance of to introduce the recently
they developed more cancer wildtype and transgenic developed technology for
ERK5 is a protein within a outwith the prostate. This lines of Zebrafish. The gene knockouts using zinc
cell and works as part of the makes ERK5 a very exciting University’s Facility has finger nucleases.
‘information highway’ to control molecule to develop new equipment necessary for
the growth and development of treatment on.’ the production of transgenic The University is keen to
cancer. According to Professor animals and for morpholino support research groups
Leung’s study, ERK5 is present Prostate cancer is the most knock-downs. It aims to interested in undertaking
in abnormally high levels of common cancer diagnosed provide a cost effective, Zebrafish research in
prostate cancer, including in men in the UK. Each year high quality alternative experimental design and
invasive cancer which has 36,000 men are diagnosed model organism which acquisition of preliminary
spread to other parts of the with the disease - 2,500 will meet the needs of data. Investigators wishing
body. It is also present in of these are in Scotland. researchers throughout to make use of the facility or
relapsed cancer following The study, reported in the the West of Scotland. to discuss either service or
previous hormone therapy. British Journal of Cancer in collaborative arrangements
February has been described Currently, Dr Xinhua Shu’s should contact
He explains, ‘When the effects by researchers and cancer group is studying the Dr Xinhua Shu or
of ERK5 are reduced in the charities as ‘extremely function of retinal disease Professor John Craft
laboratory, we observed less exciting’. The research genes in Zebrafish. His (T: 0141 331 8763 /
‘invasion’ by the cancer cells. was part funded by Cancer work includes knock- T: 0141 331 3220
This supports the idea that Research UK (CRUK), the down of candidate genes, E: Xinhua.Shu@gcu.ac.uk /
medicine or drugs blocking Beatson Institute and the construction of transgenic E: J.A.Craft@gcu.ac.uk)
ERK5 might be useful in Prostate Cancer Charity. fish lines with expression for more information.
nexxusscotland.com

4. 4 Nexxus News
MedTech support for Scottish SMEs
A NEW initiative will assist focus additional resources on
Scottish SMEs to work with stimulating Scottish technology
the University of Strathclyde SMEs to expand their portfolios
in the development of new and, ultimately, have a positive
medical technology, products impact on patient health and the
and services. The initiative, wider economy.
Strathclyde MedTech, will make
funding available to established Professor Trish Connolly,
medical technology companies, Director of SIMD noted,
or companies in their supply ‘There is ample opportunity for
chain, or those companies further product development
interested in entering the field within the sector where there
from other industries such as is a real clinical need and
electronics, optoelectronics, consequently market pull. Care
wellness, textiles, plastics and must be taken in the course
automotive components. of development ensuring
regulatory, materials, modelling,
The funders of the new initiative prototyping, manufacturing, Trish Connolly
are the Scottish Government sterilisation, packaging and
(SEEKIT) and the European other practical considerations also be able to help companies of projects it can address. In
Regional Development Fund are not overlooked. This is a form an overview of regulatory the recent past it has delivered
(ERDF), who have backed it complex specialist area in which needs and ethics allowing them consultancy projects ranging
with nearly £700,000 over three we, with our core expertise of to plan for new product R&D.’ from a few days on medical
years. taking multidisciplinary, clinically- applications of laser technology,
driven, medical device projects Overall, Strathclyde MedTech scoping diagnostic applications
Over the past four years, to pre-market demonstrators can will provide companies with for a company’s surface treatment
Strathclyde Institute of greatly facilitate. We can provide advice and support, as well as technology to longer studies
Medical Devices (SIMD) has a pathway to facilitate medical encouraging Scottish firms to on bench testing renal dialysis
successfully drawn in many device clinical investigations and collaborate with the University pumps as well as more involved
international companies in the on to product launch.’ and other companies. Funding collaborative developments
medical field, resulting in the is available to help Scottish involving multiple partners and
development of a wide range Strathclyde MedTech’s Industrial SMEs work with the University of lasting two to three years.
of technologies. These include Manager, Dr Alan Lindsay said, Strathclyde through consultancy
a portable life support system, ‘SMEs can find it difficult to or research projects, including In terms of funding available,
an award-winning wound develop the sometimes complex feasibility studies, prototyping an average of ca £5K per project
diagnostic device, novel blood convergent technologies and testing/facilities access for would be the norm in the first
separation/salvage technology (medicine/engineering/science) technologies in areas including instance, however if a company
and transdermal monitoring and products sought by diagnostics, cardiovascular can demonstrate a commitment
technology among others. clinicians, cost conscious health devices, rehabilitation/assisted to strengthen its relationship
Several of these have been services and patients. SMEs living, drug delivery, biomaterials, with the University, eg by jointly
through clinical trials and are need help in accessing clinical neuroprosthetics and cell/tissue applying for further research
CE marked products which are and other specialist opinions engineering. and knowledge exchange
either on the market, or will be at an early stage and also funding, including KTPs, then
shortly. Strathclyde MedTech, later in the development cycle. The University has a strong higher levels of funding will be
which is hosted by SIMD, will Strathclyde MedTech staff will track record in the development considered.
of medical technology, with more
than 80 scientists and engineers, For further information on
spanning a dozen departments, working with Strathclyde
collaborating with a network of MedTech contact Alan Lindsay
approximately 50 clinicians. One T: 0141 548 4110
of the great strengths of its wide E: alan.j.lindsay@strath.ac.uk
base of expertise is the diversity W: www.strath.ac.uk/simd
nexxusscotland.com

5. Nexxus News 5
Advanced biologics specialists
ANGEL BIotECHNoLoGY for their Phase I clinical trial. The conduct its trial. This is Angel’s core
HoLdINGS PLC is an established Pilot Investigation of Stem Cells in competence and commencement of
cGMP contract manufacturer Stroke (PISCES) trial is the world’s this clinical trial further strengthens
specialising in the provision of first fully regulated clinical trial Angel’s track record of working
advanced biologics, including of a neural stem cell therapy for with advanced therapy medicinal
autologous and allogeneic cell disabled stroke patients. The first products, supporting our client’s
therapy products, stem cells, now in an excellent position patient in the PISCES trial was clinical development from Phase
cellular vaccines, recombinant to become a market leader in safely discharged two days after I through to commercial launch.’
proteins and bacteriophage. providing the specialist services the straightforward neurosurgical
Angel supports biotechnology required for the manufacture of procedure was conducted at Despite the number of
and pharmaceutical companies new biologic products. Angel’s the Southern General Hospital organisations working in the field
worldwide and offers a full business development and in Glasgow. ReNeuron recently of regenerative medicine, very few
range of services from process project management philosophy announced that, following a positive have commercialised cell therapy
development through pre- is to develop a collaborative independent safety review of products. It is accepted within
clinical, clinical and commercial relationship with each client and progress of the first patient treated, the industry that if regenerative
manufacture. to fully understand their specific the clinical trial would progress to medicine can achieve the
requirements. The development, treatment of the remainder of the projected therapeutic outcomes
Angel’s manufacturing facility, production and quality first patient cohort. and overcome the various
located at Pentlands Science Park departments work closely to regulatory hurdles, then it is likely
on the outskirts of Edinburgh, is develop bespoke documentation Gordon Sherriff, Chief Operating to have a profound impact on the
regulated by the Medicines and and process improvements to Officer of Angel, said ‘Angel is healthcare industry. With Angel’s
Healthcare Products Regulatory assist clients translate their new very pleased to be manufacturing help, it is hoped that many more
Agency (MHRA). Angel has held technologies into regulatory the ReN001 stem cell product for therapeutic products will enter the
a Manufacturer’s Authorisation compliant, and commercially the clinical trial. This is a world market, and make a real difference
for Investigational Medicinal viable, therapeutic products. first, an important landmark in the to the lives of patients and their
Products since 2005 and a development of cellular therapies families worldwide.
Manufacturer’s/ Importer’s Licence Recent advances in cell biology and a tribute to the dedication of
for the manufacture of commercial have led to the development of the ReNeuron and Angel teams. For further information contact
products since 2008, enabling therapeutic products containing, or The critical nature of the work Susan McKee, Business
the provision of an integrated entirely composed of, viable cells. has drawn upon Angel’s technical Development Manager
development and manufacturing These new cell based treatments and regulatory expertise to T: 0131 445 6077
service through all stages of the are showing great promise, and provide ReNeuron with clinical E: susan.mckee@angelbio.com
product lifecycle. have the potential to treat a range material of the highest quality to W: www.angelbio.com
of conditions, and - in particular
Initially listed on the London - the unmet clinical needs
Stock Exchange (AIM) in 2005, associated with degenerative
Angel announced a share tissue diseases. The manufacture
placing in January 2011 which of these cell therapy products
raised £1.9M. The proceeds of poses specific logistical, regulatory
this placing will be used to fund and quality challenges, in addition
an increase in development to the technical challenges
and manufacturing capacities, associated with the manufacture
strategic capital investments of all biotechnology products.
and additional working capital to
support business growth, enabling Angel supports innovative
Angel to continue to respond to companies working in the field
the changing market needs. of regenerative medicine, an
example of which is ReNeuron
Angel has invested in a highly Group plc. Angel has been
skilled management team ReNeuron’s manufacturing partner
with considerable experience for over three years, producing
in biomanufacturing, and is the GMP grade stem cell therapy
nexxusscotland.com

6. 6 Nexxus News
Boost for the life science sector
in the Helsinki Region
tHE HELSINKI (capital) Region companies in the region. In The project enhances the A region with
of Finland offers an attractive response to this the HealthBIO employment opportunities of many strengths
environment for biosciences. Cluster arranges financing life science PhDs by providing
The HealthBIO Centre of events. Financiers from all over training in business and The Helsinki Region provides
Expertise serves as an Europe have been invited to industry skills, career coaching, excellent research and co-
independent contact point for these meetings. recruitment support and also operation opportunities for
biotechnology in the Helsinki provides financial aid for scientists and companies as well
Region, focusing on health The service sector is growing companies to hire unemployed as facilities and services for start-
applications in biotechnology fast within life sciences and jobseekers. up companies near to its strong
and associated business areas. HealthBIO has gathered together basic research community.
The Helsinki Metropolitan Region a number of smaller service The project involves five
cluster is managed by Programme organisations into larger groups, graduate schools and the There are nine universities,
Director Riikka Paasikivi of consolidating their services into courses span topics such as six polytechnics and several
Culminatum Innovation Oy Ltd. a bigger package. This makes ‘What is biobusiness in general? research centres, among them
it easier for the companies to How does a biotech company the Institute for Molecular
The major target group of attract international customers work? How do you make deals Medicine Finland (FIMM).
HealthBIO in the Helsinki Region and partners. and get financing? What do Four campuses are relevant
is local biotechnology-related the international markets look to life sciences: Meilahti
companies. The programme Other methods used in serving like?’ Participants also attend Medical Campus, Viikki Life
supports these companies so companies are seminars, workshops in career planning Science Campus, Kumpula
that they can develop their ideas, workshops, co-participation at and how to sell themselves and Science Campus and Otaniemi
grow and enter new markets. international fairs and exhibitions, their ideas. Technology Campus. The
A further aim of the programme lecture courses and forecasting umbrella organisation,
is to support the creation of studies. HealthBIO in the Helsinki The courses have been very Biocentrum Helsinki, has around
service enterprises derived from Metropolitan Region has a pool of well received. So far 15 PhDs 600 people engaged in research
higher education research, and 50 consultants providing services have found a new position or in molecular biology, molecular
the transfer of technology from demanded by local SMEs. job at a life science company in medicine and biotechnology at
higher education institutions to the region with the help of the the University of Helsinki and
businesses. Biobusiness.fi provides both local project. Aalto University.
and international companies
Services for companies with web-based services. It
offers news and information on
A good example of the practical health-related biotechnology in
initiatives of HealthBIO in the Helsinki Region and serves
promoting and strengthening the companies, universities, research
life science sector in the Helsinki institutions, and other interested
Region is the ‘Boost Biobusiness’ groups operating in the field.
project. Companies selected for
the project received services New opportunities
and coaching based on their for students
particular needs, for example
with updating their business plan, As a way to support and
raising funding, upgrading quality stimulate a new generation
systems or partnering for R&D or of life science scientists and
market entry. businesses in the Helsinki area,
HealthBIO has established a
A survey conducted a couple of business education project for
years ago showed that financing graduate students called ‘PhDs
was a big issue for biotech to Business Life’.
nexxusscotland.com

7. Nexxus News 7
Riikka, ‘is the existence of good
mutual partnerships between the
companies, the universities and
the public sector here. I’m sure Nexxus joins EDCA
that greatly contributed to our
receiving this award.’ NEXXUS HAS become a ’Forming this ‘super-
member of the European syndicate’ amongst European
For further information contact Diagnostic Clusters networks will strengthen
Riikka Paasikivi Association (EDCA), a Scotland’s position, as it can
new organisation designed bring together businesses,
T: +358 50 521 5944
to facilitate co-operation SMEs, large pharmaceutical
Riikka E: riikka.paasikivi@culminatum.fi amongst European biotech companies, and potential
Paasikivi W: www.culminatum.fi clusters in promoting medical funding sources from a much
W: www.biobusiness.fi diagnostics. broader spectrum - both
In the Helsinki Region, strengths W: www.healthbio.fi geographically and in terms
are to be found within almost all The field of medical of expertise,’ said Graeme
W: www.finbio.net
diagnostics includes a broad Boyle, Nexxus Director.
areas of life science, for example W: www.research.fi
range of technologies, and
in neurological disease and the sector is expected to Dr Till Bachmann, Chief
brain research, cancer research, grow rapidly alongside the Operating Officer and
molecular medicine, diagnostics, Culminatum trend towards personalised Head of Bio-chip Research
medicine. in the Division of Pathway
stem cells, cell therapy and
bioinformatics.
Innovation Medicine at the University
and HealthBIO The initiative was founded
by Euromediag, the
of Edinburgh and Nexxus’
steering group chair in
Biotechnology is also one of the diagnostic group of the the East of Scotland, is
IN tHE HELSINKI rEGIoN,
region’s rapidly growing business HealthBIO is managed by Eurobiomed cluster also heavily involved with
sectors with about 100 companies Culminatum Innovation Oy (Languedoc Roussillon – the project on behalf of
operating within the life science Ltd, which is a development Provence Alpes Cote d’Azur Nexxus. ’I am delighted to
company owned by the in France) and Wal-Dx, the be part of this commitment
sector. In addition, numerous to encourage and enhance
Uusimaa Regional Council, in vitro diagnostic group of
subsidiaries of international pharma BioWin (Wallonia, Belgium). the engagement of the
the cities of Helsinki, Espoo and
and diagnostics companies have Vantaa, and the universities, Including Nexxus, several Scottish life sciences
settled in the area. polytechnics, research institutes other regional networks sector, particularly SMEs,
and business community of the have joined the EDCA, with European activity in
Helsinki Region. Managing the including Biocat (Barcelona, diagnostics,’ he said.
‘The level of basic research in the
Centre of Expertise Programme Spain), Life Science Cluster
biomedical sector is very high in Krakow (Poland), OBN At the group’s initial
(OSKE) within the Helsinki
Finland,’ said Riikka Paasikivi, Metropolitan Region is the main (Oxford, UK), Uppsala meeting in December
Programme Director of HealthBIO function of Culminatum. Bio (Sweden), and ZMDB 2010, Professor Tea Petrin,
Cluster at Culminatum Innovation (Berlin-Brandenburg, former Chairwoman of the
Oy Ltd. ‘We need to combine The national HealthBIO cluster Germany), representing European Cluster Policy
covers the five major Finnish a total of 250 in vitro Group, said, ’The European
our forces to help small and diagnostic companies. Commission should enhance
regional bioclusters within the
medium sized companies to get Centre of Expertise Programme cluster collaborations since
into international markets. We 2007 – 2013. The participating The EDCA, currently in it can yield many benefits
are also collaborating with inward regions are Helsinki Region, planning stages, will likely including the strengthening
investment organisations to attract Kuopio, Oulu, Tampere and be launched by mid-2011. of regional pioneering work
Turku. By co-ordinated co- Its objectives are to underpin that shows the way to good
international players into our practice in EU technological
operation and networking the competitiveness of
thriving biotech hub.’ of regional and other European in vitro diagnostic empowerment.’
national activities, and with players through networking
Entrepreneurial spirit a multidisciplinary approach and innovative partnerships, For further information,
to top level expertise and to expedite access to non- contact Graeme Boyle,
competencies, the cluster aims EU markets (particularly Nexxus Director
In recognition of its entrepreneurial
to build on the international North America and Asia) and E: g.boyle@nexxusscotland.
spirit, the EU’s Committee of competitiveness of Finnish to harness the growing role com or project leaders,
Regions has awarded the Helsinki biotechnology. of medical diagnostics in Philippe Outrebon and Pierre
Metropolitan Region one of its healthcare practice. Member Vidal of Euromediag
three European Entrepreneurial organisations hope the EDCA E: pierre.vidal@eurobio
will help foster collaborative med.org or Frédéric Druck
Region Awards for 2012. The
R&D projects and sharing of of the Wal-Dx/BioWin group
other recipients are Catalonia technology platforms. E: Frederic.druck@biowin.org.
(Spain) and Tvarna (Slovakia).
Aerial photograph of Foresterhill Campus
‘A particular strength of ours,’ said
nexxusscotland.com

8. 8 Nexxus News
Scottish cardiothoracic centre
one of largest in Europe
tHE GoLdEN JUBILEE Reperfusion Service which is a
NAtIoNAL HoSPItAL in new NHS service for heart attack
Clydebank provides advanced patients. In fact, over 3000 acute
cardiac care to a population of coronary syndrome (ACS)
2.5 million people in the West of patients are managed invasively
Scotland. The hospital hosts the in the Golden Jubilee National
West of Scotland Heart and Hospital each year. Seven
Lung Centre which provides hundred of these patients have
regional services in emergency ‘primary’ or ‘rescue’
interventional cardiology, PCI in heart attack patients who
electrophysiology, device are transferred from across the
implantation and cardiothoracic West of Scotland by the Scottish
surgery. The hospital also hosts Ambulance Service. The hospital
the Scottish National Services is proud of the fact that its ‘door-
for advanced heart failure, to-first-balloon’ time (2009/2010),
congenital heart disease and which is a measure of the Colin Berry in theatre
pulmonary hypertension. standard of care, is the shortest
Considering all of these services in the United Kingdom. The across Scotland. The service has and the British Heart Foundation.
together, the Golden Jubilee hospital also provides a regional specialists in cardiac magnetic They have published in the New
National Hospital is one of the service for advanced imaging in resonance imaging and England Journal of Medicine,
largest cardiothoracic centres in cardiac CT and MRI. transcatheter device implantation. Circulation and other
Europe. In the not too distant future, it is internationally-leading journals.
Cardiothoracic surgery planned to provide transcatheter
The hospital also has other key pulmonary valve implantation. The hospital’s research strategy
attributes over and above clinical The Cardiothoracic Surgical focuses on developmental clinical
care. The Beardmore Centre for service is one of the busiest in the Pulmonary Vascular Disease - studies for new therapies and
Health Sciences is a new state- United Kingdom. Over 1,500 the hospital also hosts the devices which have the potential
of-the art research and skills coronary artery bypass operations national service for pulmonary to improve patient health and
centre which will open in Spring and valve replacements are vascular disease. Professor wellbeing. Dr Colin Berry is
2011. The Beardmore Hotel and performed each year. Andrew Peacock and his team academic lead in Cardiology and
Conference Centre has 14 are international experts in this research governance is delivered
meeting rooms, including a 170 National Services field and have led clinical trials through a Research Management
seat auditorium. The auditorium of new drug therapies for this Office (Dr Catherine Sinclair) and
has video links to the cardiac Advanced Heart Failure - the condition. the Board’s R&D Group.
catheterisation laboratories for hospital hosts the Scottish
‘live case’ transmissions, and national service for heart failure research Beardmore Centre for
several national meetings have including heart transplantation, Health Science
already made use of this facility. mechanical ventricular assist Research is a key priority in the
devices and the acute and hospital. The research that is The latest development of the
The Jubilee hospital also longer term management of undertaken includes commercial Board will see The Beardmore
provides clinical care in other patients with heart failure. studies and trials and Centre for Health Science open
areas, notably in orthopaedics investigator-initiated single and in 2011, providing an exceptional
and ophthalmology. Adult Congenital Heart Disease - multi centre clinical trials. focal point for training and
the National service for adult research activity with:
Cardiology congenital heart disease, led by Investigators in the hospital are
Dr Hamish Walker, includes a supported by the Chief Scientist • consulting rooms specifically
The Cardiology Department, led team of doctors and nurses who Office, the Scottish Funding designed for patients who
by Dr Keith Oldroyd, supports the provide in-patient and out-patient Council, Medical Research choose to participate in
West of Scotland Optimal care for patients referred from Scotland, the Wellcome Trust research studies; and
nexxusscotland.com

9. Nexxus News 9
• training rooms equipped with • provide a dedicated facility for
state of the art conference
technology and fibre optic
clinical skills training involving
the use of a patient simulator; New state of the
audio visual links from the
cardiac catheterisation
laboratories (cath labs)
• enhance surgical skills
training through the provision
art campus opens
and theatres, providing the of a purpose-built area with
opportunity for enhanced the ability to live stream
surgical skills training. surgical procedures from
the hospital; and
The Beardmore Centre for Health
Science will complement the • add four additional
existing services provided on conference training rooms
site by providing a unique to the facilities already
combination of state-of-the-art available within The
healthcare professional training Beardmore Hotel and
facilities, a hospital and a hotel Conference Centre. Edinburgh Napier Sports Science student and Scottish
resulting in an ideal venue for Rugby Sevens squad member Dougie Fife is put through his
showcasing equipment Integration with other paces at Sighthill’s sports research lab
associated with all aspects key stakeholders
SCotLANd’S NEWESt HUB areas for training nurses; a
of patient care.
for health, science and sports sports facility which includes a
The Golden Jubilee National
education opened its doors biomechanics laboratory and
The Centre will also: Hospital has strong links with
to 5,070 students and staff in an environmental chamber
Universities in the West of January. that can recreate high altitude
• enhance the experience of Scotland, notably the Institute conditions with controllable
patients participating in of Cardiovascular and Medical The new £60M state of the art temperature and humidity
clinical trials; Sciences in the University of Edinburgh Napier University levels.
Glasgow. building in Sighthill in the west
• increase the number of trials of Edinburgh, serves students The new campus has already
hosted by the Golden Jubilee In order to facilitate and deliver from the Faculty of Health, been awarded a BREEAM
National Hospital; research the hospital now hosts Life and Social Sciences. (BRE Environmental
The Faculty comprises Assessment Method)
the NHS West Cardiovascular
the School of Life, Sport & ‘excellent’ rating. Low carbon
• provide excellent co-located and Metabolic Specialty Group
Social Sciences and the emissions and effective
hotel accommodation for whose members include NHS
School of Nursing, Midwifery overall energy performance
patients taking part in clinicians, academics, & Social Care - which are play a key part of the design.
research projects; statisticians, and managers being brought together in one During construction, 8,000m3
from IT and R&D from across location for the first time. of demolition material was
the West of Scotland. It is also recycled and incorporated into
• enhance the clinical skills
represented on Glasgow The 24,345m2 building is the the new building.
training experience for all
Biomedicine which links equivalent in size to three
healthcare professionals
Universities and the NHS in and a half football pitches. Dame Professor Joan
through the provision of At its core is the eight storey Stringer, Principal and Vice
the West of Scotland.
two single bedroom ward block which was retained from Chancellor of Edinburgh
simulation areas; the old university buildings, Napier University said, ‘I
The Golden Jubilee National
while a further 13,833m2 was am exceptionally proud of
Hospital is keen to develop
Golden Jubilee National Hospital developed and integrated this new landmark building
industrial partnerships with life around it. for the city. I believe that we
sciences and medical device have created a truly special
companies. Contact Dr Colin The new campus offers centre for the teaching of
Berry in the first instance students and staff top-class health, science and sports
T: 0141 951 5180 facilities including 25 specialist of which both our students
E: margaret.byrne@gjnh.scot. teaching rooms and 9 clinical and Scotland can be proud.
nhs.uk (PA) skills laboratories - including The architectural wow factor
W: www.nhsgoldenjubilee.co.uk life-like hospital wards including and innovative facilities
High Dependency Unit (HDU) combine to make it a first
W: www.thebeardmore.com/
simulator suites which mimic class environment in which
about-us/health-science
intensive care treatment to learn.’
nexxusscotland.com

10. 10 Nexxus News
LEDs in life sciences
LIGHt EMIttING dIodES of a similar device that uses a
(LEds) have moved beyond the blue wavelength of light to treat
realm of car dashboard displays acne and expects to bring this
and high-tech televisions; these product to market later this year.
tiny lights are beginning to make
a big impact in life science ‘We still have a bank of IP in this
applications. area and our key focus is to take
what we believe is a potential
From cancer therapy to technology platform and apply
neuroscience research, Scottish it to other applications such as
life scientists are building wound healing or cosmetic uses,’
companies based on LEDs, a said Ian.
form of lighting that relies on
semiconductor materials to mLEd
produce long-lasting light with
low energy consumption. Their The Glasgow-based company
small size, hardiness and low Samuel, leader of the Organic depth of penetration into the skin mLED is based on an ethos of
heat production also make LEDs Semiconductor Centre at the is attained. collaboration. The company’s
the component-of-choice for University of St Andrews. future lies in making the most of
inventors looking to incorporate ‘It’s a unique product,’ said Ian. collaborative efforts in several
a light-producing element in their The device they developed ‘We’re the first ambulatory light different disciplines.
life science devices. allows patients to receive source for PDT skin cancer
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) treatment on the market.’ mLED’s technology originated at
The emergence of LEDs in life at home, at their convenience. the Institute of Photonics (IoP) at
science devices is part of a wider PDT involves the application of Ambicare is rolling out Ambulight the University of Strathclyde, a
trend towards cross-disciplinary a pharmaceutical to the skin, its PDT at a series of European commercially oriented research
collaboration that draws on deep absorption, and then controlled centres and taking the product to unit that works to bridge the gap
expertise in disparate specialties. exposure of the area to light, Australia, with hopes to expand between academic research
Electronics, photonics and inducing a reaction that activates into the US soon as well. and industrial applications in
optics researchers have years the drug to destroy cancer cells. photonics. In 2009, the now-CEO
of experience developing The company also recently of mLED, Dr Jim Bonar, received
LEDs in high-tech industry ‘It’s the same total dose of light completed the initial clinical trials funding to assess the commercial
sectors, for specialist devices that the large static lamps in
as well as general lighting, hospital would produce but over An array of microLEDs with pixel
and this knowledge is now a longer period of time,’ said diameter of 72 um operating at
benefiting those with life-science Ambicare Health CEO Dr Ian 370 nm
applications in mind. Muirhead.
Ambicare Health The original Ambulight PDT device
James and Ifor developed used
Patients with non melanoma Organic LEDs (OLEDs), which
skin cancers can spend less can be placed on a thin substrate.
time in hospital, thanks to an This allows the entire device to be
LED device made by St Andrews small, portable, and lightweight
based Ambicare Health. The with a disposable dressing.
company, previously known as Ambicare’s production devices
Lumicure, was founded in 2004 use LEDs and diffusers and the
by Professor James Ferguson, red wavelength of light emitted by
consultant dermatologist these LEDs matches that specified
and head of the University by existing medical protocols.
of Dundee’s Department of This ensures the pharmaceutical
Dermatology and Professor Ifor is being activated and the desired
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11. Nexxus News 11
potential of some of the research extremely small liquid samples.
going on at the Institute in a six- The decay of this fluorescence
month ‘CEO-designate’ role. intensity over time can also be
measured with great sensitivity.
Illuminated
‘I got to look at the IoP’s
Retractor
microLED technology, which In another project, mLED is
I knew was internationally collaborating with the IoP and
renowned, to establish if there Stanford University in the US.
was a good market opportunity They work in optogenetics,
there,’ he said. a field that combines genetic
engineering and optics to trigger
There was, and mLED spun out activity or inactivity of neurons,
in July 2010. Micro LED arrays to study the central nervous
rely on the same semiconductor system in action. Using mLED’s
technology as other LEDs, but technology can help control
their uniqueness lies in their the firing of action potentials partners to help take the device
high power density and the in nerves and the biological to market. Market research
precise control users have over processes being studied with commissioned by SHIL estimates
programming the dense patterns extremely high precision. working in NHS Ayrshire and that two thirds of hospital
of light displayed, both spatially Arran. procedures would benefit from
and temporally. Older methods of using light use of the Illuminated Retractor
as this sort of trigger can Murali found operating room making the total global market for
The experts at mLED use this unintentionally affect more cells light sources did not adequately the device more than £1billion.
technology platform to reach than intended, but with mLED’s illuminate surgical cavities.
out to several sectors including technology it becomes feasible Surgeons’ shadows could block All of these technologies rely on
printing, communications and life to target specific cells with less light from overhead lamps and expertise from physics, optics,
sciences. ‘background noise’ or cross-talk head-mounted lights or fibre-optic life sciences and medicine
amongst the cells. cables reduced mobility around for their inspiration, execution
‘There’s a gap in the market for the operating room. Murali felt and development. Much of
our novel technology,’ said Jim. ‘This field is really catching fire,’ there had to be a better way to the photonics research that
‘We can get feedback and work said Jim. ‘At first there were bring light into deep incisions, pre-dated these life science
with our customers to establish just four or five researchers and Scottish Health Innovations applications has made LEDs
mutual capabilities. Our way of looking into this, and now there Ltd (SHIL) came on board to help energy efficient, long-lasting,
operating is that we’re keen to are hundreds or thousands. We develop the concept. dynamic, and inexpensive. With
establish collaboration, reach out are in a position where we can this technology development
to people who will be able to take deliver the tools and products to ‘We felt there was fantastic opening up greater possibilities
our capabilities to enhance their help researchers’ ambitions in potential in this area,’ said for LEDs, it has become feasible
offering.’ this area. Jim McGuire, the SHIL project to bring these little lights into a
leader. ‘It is a wholly Scottish whole new sector, incorporating
mLED has sold demonstrator ‘We recognise that only by having collaboration between SHIL, NHS them into medical and scientific
devices of their platform open relationships in certain Scotland, Design LED Products devices.
technology to the US, China, applications will we be able Ltd, Fearsomengine Ltd, and
South Korea, Israel and to progress. We’re very much NHS Ayrshire and Arran.’ For further information contact:
Germany, to blue chip companies about partnering. That’s why the Ian Muirhead
and to SMEs. Closer to home, scientific research market is of The Illuminated Retractor Ambicare Health Ltd
mLED is considering life science so much interest to us, to use combines a conventional self- E: info@ambicarehealth.com
applications identified by the our skill set to help meet those retaining retractor with built-in W: www.ambicarehealth.com
IoP and partners such as the demands.’ LEDs, accomplishing two jobs at
University of Edinburgh. once - holding open the incision Jim Bonar, mLED
Illuminated retractor and directly illuminating the T: 0141 548 4233
One application is ‘on chip’ cavity. E: jim.bonar@mled-ltd.com
micro-fluorimetry, in which the Another example of a Scottish W: www.mled-ltd.com
microLED array technology, LED based technology began Prototypes of the disposable Jim McGuire, SHIL
coupled with other devices, can with a specialist registrar in retractor have been developed T: 0141 248 7334
shine a specific wavelength of general and vascular surgery, and SHIL is seeking, and is in E: jim.mcguire@shil.co.uk
light to stimulate fluorescence in Murali Subramaniam, who was discussion with, commercial W: www.shil.co.uk
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12. 12 Nexxus News
Investing in life sciences
and talent
GrAMPIAN BIoPArtNErS and application that guides their technique allows easy, quick
Ltd (GBP), based in Aberdeen, investment decisions. GBP is and cost-effective access using
was formed in 2008 by three unusual in that it only invests a minimally invasive technique.
colleagues who were the in life sciences, and then, only Through its subsidiary, Oristem,
scientific founders of Haptogen, in segments of the market the the company now offers stem
a spinout from the University of principals are totally familiar cell collection and banking to
Aberdeen. Haptogen was a drug with - immunodiagnostics and individuals.
discovery company developing devices, immunotechnology,
protein-based treatments for life biologic drug discovery. GBP Athol Haas, Pharmacells’
threatening diseases including has particular expertise in the CEO sees real value in GBP’s
bacterial infections and liver areas of antibody diagnostics hands-on approach - ‘Grampian
disease/fibrosis. Haptogen also and biologic therapeutics. BioPartners has become a key
launched a new antibody platform More recently it has also made part of our business model.
technology that pioneered early stage assessments and Deborah O’Neil, NovaBiotics It has contributed not only
the isolation and use of shark investments in regenerative financially but also with expert
antibodies for the treatment of medicine and vaccine/drug period in the company’s lifecycle. advice, contacts and general
disease. Professor Andy Porter, delivery companies. GBP’s ability to understand the life sciences business savvy. It
and Drs Gillian Broadbent and science and the company’s was very important for us to not
Keith Charlton became the core NovaBiotics novel technology platform from only raise the finance we need to
team of GBP following Haptogen’s an early stage, and to grasp achieve our goals but to attempt
acquisition by Wyeth. The experience with NovaBiotics the therapeutic and commercial to include useful partners that
demonstrates GBP’s willingness potential of the product candidates can improve our business where
to undertake due diligence on NovaBiotics has developed, has possible. Our partnership with
behalf of other potential investors, been key to attracting syndicated GBP continues to prove that this
and to take the lead in supporting co-investment from other funds decision was the right one for us.’
funding rounds. including Tri Capital, Aurora,
Discovery Investment Fund ImmunoSolv
Early in 2008, GBP made its first and Scottish Enterprise. The
investment in Aberdeen based funding rounds in which GBP has ImmunoSolv, based in Edinburgh
Andy NovaBiotics, which designs and participated and, latterly, led have with laboratories in Aberdeen
Porter develops novel peptide-based helped transform NovaBiotics too, is another company in
anti-infectives. Drug development from a preclinical company GBP’s portfolio. Its in-depth
GBP is establishing itself as an is a hugely expensive process, with exciting technology and knowledge of apoptosis enabled
active, yet informal investment and GBP has invested in the potential products to a leading the company to develop Dead-
syndicate for angel investors company five times. Progress biotechnology entity with clinically Cert® technology to improve the
wishing to back young life has been rapid - NovaBiotics’ validated anti-infective drug quality of cell populations in vitro
science companies. Typical lead compound the biologic, candidates.’ through a novel platform enabling
investments range from £10K Novexatin, a brush-on treatment the detection and removal of non-
to around £250K. Becoming co- for nail fungus, has successfully Pharmacells/oristem
investment partners with Scottish completed Phase IIa clinical trails.
Enterprise in 2010 has enabled And further exciting products are Pharmacells is a young
GBP’s investees to access in the pipeline. biotechnology company. It is
additional funds for investment. based in Glasgow and has
Asked about the benefits of GBP’s exclusive rights to a novel adult
All three principals were, and still involvement with NovaBiotics, its stem cell technique. It has the
consider themselves to be, active Chief Executive, Deborah O’Neil ability to identify, isolate, process
scientists, and it is their deep commented, ‘GBP has invested and store recently discovered
understanding of science, and of serially in NovaBiotics over the pluripotent cells directly from
the benefits of its development course of what has been a critical a blood sample. Its patented
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13. Nexxus News 13
viable cells. Already generating an innovative Aberdeen funds. Enquiries from both with his vast knowledge of life
revenues, the company has company that has developed a potential investors, and sciences business success. His
big plans to develop more tools clinically proven non-invasive from companies looking for particular dual skill set as both
and techniques, and to further early and predictive test for investment are routed through a highly regarded scientist and
promote its expertise in antibody bladder cancer diagnosis the ‘contact’ page on its a successful business owner, is
isolation and engineering. and monitoring. A similar website. Several investments a very useful combination and
Dr Ruth Murray CEO of approach looks very likely to are under discussion, and GBP serves to make Pharmacells
ImmunoSolv adds, ‘…support be applicable to diagnosis and will be investing further funds into a stronger business all
through the investment funding monitoring of prostate cancer over the coming months. round.’
from Grampian BioPartners and too.
the Scottish Co-Investment Fund The final words are, perhaps, For further information about
is a key part of ImmunoSolv’s During the past year, new best left to Athol Haas who Grampian BioPartners and the
strategy to strengthen our investors have joined the succinctly summarises the companies featured see
presence in key markets and syndicate, and James Shaw, strength of GBP’s proposition, W: www.grampianbiopartners.com
to deliver sustainable growth.’ GBP’s Company Secretary, ‘One of GBP’s key contributors, W: www.cytosystems.com
has established his own Professor Andy Porter, has W: www.immunosolv.com
Cytosystems practice in London and become a non-executive W: www.novabiotics.co.uk
Edinburgh, extending GBP’s director of Pharmacells. Andy W: www.oristem.com
In the area of diagnostics, GBP geographic reach, and its works continually to add to our W: www.pharmacells.co.uk
has invested in Cytosystems access to further investment proposition and product range
Neuroscientists gather
GLASGoW NEUroSCIENCE covered optic nerve hypoplasia, clinic induced neuroprotection,
- an academic and clinical visual perception, amblyopia and neurotoxicity, spinal cord injury,
community which aims stereopsis. pain inflammation, vision,
to stimulate and improve neurodevelopment
neuroscience across Glasgow Among the neurodisabilities and neurodegeneration.
- reconvened in January explored, either in the laboratory
for the second Glasgow or in patients, were stroke, During the wine reception at the
Neuroscience Day. Over a schizophrenia and Rett’s end of the day, Graeme Boyle,
hundred neuroscientists from syndrome. Nexxus Director, awarded prizes
universities and hospitals Graeme Boyle presents to PhD students Emma Reid and
gathered at Glasgow Caledonian Basic research was also well Emma Reid with her prize Kamal Gadalla – both from the
University for a day of talks and represented with presentations University of Glasgow – in respect
posters with sponsors including on free radicals, P2Y receptors, research as it is understood and of best oral presentation and best
Blackwell Exhibitions, Nexxus, auditory cortex organisation, disseminated by policy makers poster prize respectively.
PerkinElmer, PsyRING, and neurotransmission and and the media.
Stratech Scientific Ltd. interneurons. The organising committee
As before on Glasgow received extremely favourable
The neuroscience of vision Universally acknowledged as Neuroscience Day, the speakers feedback from attendees,
was a prominent theme of the the highlight of the day however were at all stages of their and are already using their
day. Consultant Paediatric was Keynote Speaker Professor academic careers, from PhD suggestions in planning
Ophthalmologist Professor David Nutt, a global expert on students to senior professors. The Glasgow Neuroscience Day
Gordon Dutton’s opening talk neuroscience who has devoted more junior speakers rose to the 2012. To keep abreast of
gave fascinating examples his career to the development of challenge admirably, producing this and to hear about other
of people’s responses to responses to the heath problems talks of excellent quality and forthcoming neuroscience-
compromised vision and Dr associated with addiction, anxiety clarity. The poster presentations related events, seminars and
Carrie Ballantyne described and other psychiatric diseases. His demonstrated further the jobs, contact Tomoko Iwata
compromised visuo-spatial lecture ‘Science and nonscience in great diversity and quality of (E:Tomoko.Iwata@glasgow.
development in children with drug policy’ was entertaining and neuroscience research being ac.uk) to request the monthly
autism and fragile X syndrome. informative and took attendees carried out in Glasgow. Topics e-newsletter produced by the
Other talks and posters on vision on a journey through drug ranged from basic research to group.
nexxusscotland.com

14. 14 Nexxus News
Best foot forward
A JoINt rESEArCH and functional form of orthoses is
The consortium meet to discuss
innovation initiative led by difficult to verify, and repeat progress at the offices of
Glasgow Caledonian University, prescriptions can be inaccurate. Orthobaltic services, an SME
A-FOOTPRINT, aims to develop Hand manufacturing using project partner based in Kaunus,
novel ankle/foot and foot thermoplastics limits design Lithuania
orthoses for common disabling choice and limits personalised
conditions which are cost function to simple parameters
effective, high-speed to market, such as cushioning and
and personalised for form and range of motion. Innovation
function. in the sector is limited and
market competitiveness is
Up to 196 million Europeans weak. For both private and
suffer disabling foot and ankle nationalised healthcare sectors,
pain and the prevalence is set reimbursement for orthotic
to rise in an ageing society treatment varies from country
with increasing chronic long to country making potentially
term conditions. Ankle and foot available markets in Europe
orthoses are used to treat many difficult to access.
of these conditions, costing
approximately €312M per annum To address these problems fit and comfort and functional Materialise NV from Belgium
across European health services. the A-FOOTPRINT project performance. Rapid provision will lead the development
However, approximately 70% was funded by the European of better orthotic devices with of computer-aided design
of these medical devices are Commission in the Seventh excellent supporting technologies software exploiting their
made using traditional techniques Framework Cooperation and services should result in expertise from the dental
relying on impression casts, Work Programme, under quicker recovery times, reduced sector. The clinical-academic
templates and hand fabrication. theme 4 for Nanosciences, symptoms and improved centres at Glasgow Caledonian
Personalised devices provide Nanotechnologies, Materials and functional ability thus increasing University, the Mobilab at
more effective outcome in terms New Production Technologies1 the quality of life for European KHK University in Belgium
of symptom reduction, fit, comfort at a total cost of €5.3M. This citizens with disabling foot and and the University Hospital
and aesthetics but are more 48 month joint research and ankle conditions. Working closely Maastricht in the Netherlands
costly and time consuming to innovation initiative is led by with multiple stakeholders, the are working alongside SME
manufacture. Patient supply Professor Jim Woodburn, project will also develop flexible partners AnyBody Technology
typically takes 28 days, the Professor of Rehabilitation, business models sensitive to from Denmark and RSscan
Institute for Applied Health different healthcare models International from Belgium to
Figure 1. subject- Research, Glasgow Caledonian across Europe. The project develop musculoskeletal, multi-
specific foot model
University. The consortium specifically targets benefits to body and finite element analysis
used to design
and optimise a groups and coordinates research, SMEs in the orthotic sector.’ simulations to understand foot
personalised foot analysis and pilot testing in five and ankle function in health
orthotic device universities, six SMEs and one A-FOOTPRINT is organised as and in impaired states across
industrial partner across seven nine integrated work packages. a range of common, disabling
European countries. Fontys University from the foot and ankle disorders. These
Netherlands will work with simulation techniques will also
‘The A-FOOTPRINT approach Orthotic SME partners (Firefly be used to develop numerical
will automate processes to speed Orthoses, Ireland; Junquera y optimisation algorithms in order
up the manufacture, delivery and Diz, Spain; Baltic Orthoservice, to optimise orthotic designs
supply of personalised devices Lithuania; and Peacocks Medical based on patient-specific
exploiting digital scanning, Group, UK) to develop new criteria. To build these models
computer-aided design and rapid intelligent patient information the clinical centres will provide
manufacturing,’ explains Jim. systems to enable improved the biomechanical modelling
‘Novel devices will be developed diagnostics and prescribing scientists with personalised
which are cost-effective, yet protocols for personalised data sets comprising computed
personalised to provide better orthoses. tomographic and magnetic
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15. Nexxus News 15
resonance images of the covering central and distributed
foot and ankle along with manufacturing models.
detailed three-dimensional
kinematic (movement) and
kinetic (force) data and muscle
‘Co-ordinating the
A-FOOTPRINT study
New alliance
function information from presents Glasgow Caledonian
electromyography (see Figure University with a fantastic CLYdEBANK BASEd Tissue specific biomarker panels
1 on previous page). opportunity to grow and Solutions and Nottingham is unparalleled.’ Other tools
develop capacity and capability based CompanDX have in CompanDX’s “Distiller”
Solid freeform fabrication in leading and managing joined forces in a co- portfolio allow for unique
techniques such as selective large-scale, multinational and promotion and service pathways interactions maps
laser sintering will be interdisciplinary projects with agreement to provide clients to be produced showing the
benchmarked for orthotic an industrial focus to SMEs. in the pharmaceutical and changes in gene interactions
manufacture by researchers The complexity of the study is biotech sectors with an following differing treatments.
at the University of Newcastle, challenging but highly rewarding unparalleled opportunity to Pre-clinical studies examining
UK. Exploiting the capabilities of as we take ideas from the lab link the supply of human the effects of drug treatments
layer or additive manufacturing and convert them into treatment tissues and biofluids to on tissues or cells provided
will enable orthotics to be products which will directly subsequent biomarker and by Tissue Solutions can now
developed with new functional benefit our patients.’ target identification studies. be interrogated to reveal
properties and capabilities such changes in expressed gene
as variable wall stiffness and The A-FOOTPRINT project The two organisations met at interactions, paving the way
embedded sensing. Prototype is due to be completed in the the Genesis Conference in for co-therapy or therapy
devices will undergo pre-clinical autumn of 2013. London in December 2010, planning decisions.
evaluation using standard ISO where Tissue Solutions
mechanical testing and first- For further information contact was a guest of Nexxus, And CompanDX now has
onto-man clinical trials across Jim Woodburn, Glasgow and immediately realised a route to allow clients to
clinical centres in Europe. Caledonian University there was potential to translate in silico studies to
T: 0141 331 8483 work together to mutual human ex vivo data using
Jim concludes, ‘Research E: jim.woodburn@gcu.ac.uk advantage. Tissue Solutions the capabilities of Tissue
and technology developments W: www.afootprint.eu provides ethically acquired Solutions to source a wide
within A-FOOTPRINT will be and fully consented quality variety of annotated clinical
combined in a fully integrated human tissue for research for samples from tissues and
system with the production of Grant agreement NMP2-
1
the development of ex vivo bloods, hair follicles, urine
prototype devices demonstrated SE-2009-228893 assays, toxicity testing and and saliva. With increasing
within an SME pilot factory. target/biomarker discovery pressure on the Industry to
Market surveys are currently and validation, whilst reduce the cost and failure
being performed to develop CompanDX provides leading rate of clinical trials, methods
new SME business models edge bioinformatics support that allow companies to
in the delivery of composite predict response, identify
biomarker panels, drug toxicity issues and drug
targets and information on interactions are very much
compensatory pathways. the order of the day.
Morag McFarlane, CSO Dr Andy Sutton, CEO of
of Tissue Solutions said, CompanDx said, ‘The
‘This partnership provides alliance between Tissue
a real opportunity to offer Solutions and CompanDX
the industry a package that offers an exceptional
hasn’t been available before. opportunity for the industry to
To be able to conduct ex vivo tap into resources and tools
experiments using relevant that provide a human centric
clinical samples and then approach and that could
have the tools ready to distil address the needs of an
A subject undergoes detailed gait analysis out highly sensitive and embattled sector.’
nexxusscotland.com