LabMedica International November 2025

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AI Enables Low-Cost Rapid Cancer Scoring

Digital pathology is essential for modern cancer diagnostics, particularly for evaluating biomarkers like HER2, which guide breast cancer treatment decisions. However, conventional whole-slide imaging scanners are prohibitively expensive, costing

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Blood Test Reveals Biological Aging of Different Body Organs and Systems

Aging does not occur uniformly across the body. While some organs may age rapidly, others remain healthier for longer due to lifestyle, environmental, and genetic factors. Traditional biological age tests, such as epigenetic clocks, provide only a single

number and fail to show which body systems are most at risk. Scientists have now created a more advanced test capable of assessing aging across multiple physiological systems with greater precision. Researchers from Yale University (New Haven, CT,

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Blood Test for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

MBreakthrough Tool Improves Genetic Testing Accuracy

Breakthrough Tool Improves Genetic Testing Accuracy

By dividing the genome into ancestryspecific segments and enabling more accurate allele frequency estimates, the Local Ancestry Inference (LAI) method can capture genetic variations missed by global averages.

See article on page 6

Blood Test Offers Earlier and More Affordable Detection of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, largely because most cases are diagnosed at advanced stages when treatment options are limited. Early detection significantly improves survival, yet current screening methods like low-dose CT

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Tyalgic Encephalomyelitis, also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), is a long-term debilitating illness that affects millions worldwide, including over 400,000 people in the UK. The condition causes extreme fatigue unrelieved by rest and remains poorly understood, often leading to years of misdiagnosis or dismissal due to the absence of a definitive test.

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AI Revolutionizes Malaria Diagnosis

Malaria remains a major health burden in Malaysia, with Plasmodium knowlesi the leading cause of human cases. Its rapid replication cycle and similarities to other malaria species make timely and accurate diagnosis particularly difficult. In rural clinics, trained parasitologists are scarce, and misidentification is common. To address these gaps, researchers have developed a locally tailored

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CRISPR-Based Mouth Swab Test Simplifies Tuberculosis Screening

uberculosis remains the world’s deadliest infectious disease, with more than 10 million people falling ill annually and about 40% of cases going undiagnosed. Current testing depends on sputum samples, which are difficult to collect and impossible

in many patients, including children, HIV-positive individuals, and those with extrapulmonary TB. Now, researchers have refined a gene-based method that enables accurate detection of TB from simple, non-invasive samples such as tongue swabs.

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Graphene-Based Sensor Uses Breath Sample to Identify Diabetes and Prediabetes in Minutes

About 37 million U.S. adults live with diabetes, and one in five is unaware of their condition. Diagnosing diabetes often requires blood draws or lab visits, which are costly and inconvenient. Researchers have now developed a new approach that uses a simple breath sample to provide results in minutes, offering a fast and inexpensive method to identify both diabetes and prediabetes.

The innovation comes from Penn State (University Park, PA, USA; www.psu.edu), where scientists have designed a graphenebased breath sensor. The device detects acetone, a natural byproduct of fat metabolism, exhaled in breath. Everyone produces acetone, but levels above 1.8 parts per million indicate diabetes risk. Unlike earlier glucose sensors that required sweat or lab analysis, this method only needs a patient to exhale into a bag for quick on-site results.

The sensor was built using laser-induced graphene, a porous

material created by burning polyimide film with a CO2 laser. To improve selectivity, the researchers combined graphene with zinc oxide, forming a junction that made the sensor more effective at detecting acetone molecules. A special membrane was also added to block water vapor, which could otherwise interfere with readings.

Currently, patients must breathe into a bag to ensure accurate measurements without interference from environmental airflow. The study, published in Chemical Engineering Journal, confirmed the sensor could reliably detect acetone levels linked to diabetes and prediabetes. This proof-of-concept demonstrates a potential noninvasive alternative to blood-based diagnostics.

Going forward, the researchers aim to design a version of the sensor that works directly under the nose or inside a mask. They also see opportunities to expand its use, such as monitoring how acetone levels fluctuate with diet and exercise. Such insights could broaden the device’s applications beyond diabetes to general health tracking.

“While we have sensors that can detect glucose in sweat, these require exercise, chemicals, or a sauna, which are not always practical,” said Huanyu “Larry” Cheng, associate professor of engineering science and mechanics at Penn State. “This sensor only requires that you exhale into a bag, dip the sensor in, and wait a few minutes for results.”

Image: The sensor can help diagnose diabetes and prediabetes onsite in a few minutes using just a breath sample (Photo courtesy of Larry Cheng/Penn State)

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AI Revolutionizes Malaria Diagnosis

artificial intelligence (AI) system that enhances the accuracy and speed of malaria diagnosis.

The new system, called MalariaCare+, was created by a team at Universiti Malaya (UM, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; www.um.edu.my) and uses a graph-enhanced YOLO deep learning model to detect infected red blood cells, even on overlapping or low-quality slides. MalariaCare+ is being tested in collaboration with Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS, Sarawak, Malaysia; www.unimas.my) and has been integrated into an app tested with blood samples.

Designed for local realities, it is mobile-compatible and acts as a diagnostic assistant rather than a replacement for medical professionals. Early results show the AI providing healthcare workers with reliable “second set of expert eyes,” improving diagnostic accuracy in real-world rural conditions. The system’s design, shaped by input from doctors, technicians, and field researchers, ensures responsiveness to the on-the-ground challenges of malaria

IHernán

Bernard Gouget France

Maurizio Ferrari Italy

Tahir S. Pillay South Africa

Andreas Rothstein Colombia

Praveen Sharma India

Rosa I. Sierra-Amor Mexico

Peter Wilding United States

Andrew Wootton United Kingdom

detection in Malaysia.

Next steps include adding a stage-specific classifier to identify Plasmodium knowlesi life stages, enabling faster treatment decisions. Planned updates will bring real-time analysis, visual explanations of AI findings, and secure patient history tracking that works even in low-connectivity areas. In addition to diagnosis, MalariaCare+ will be integrated into public health training at UM and UNIMAS, equipping future healthcare workers with both biological and technological expertise.

“This isn’t AI for the sake of it. This is applied intelligence; built with and for the people who deal with malaria on the ground,” said Associate Professor Dr. Khairunnisa Hasikin, project lead at Universiti Malaya. “We trained the AI to see what even the sharpest eyes might miss. It’s not about replacing doctors and clinicians. It’s about giving them a second set of expert eyes when they need it most.”

Interstitial Lung Disease Test Could Identify Patients Before Symptoms Appear

nterstitial lung disease (ILD) is a group of chronic respiratory disorders that cause inflammation and scarring of lung tissue, often leading to irreversible damage and the need for lung transplants. The most common form, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), has no known cure, and current drugs can slow progression but often cause severe side effects. Now, a new biomarker-based approach could allow doctors to identify individuals at risk of ILD before symptoms develop, paving the way for earlier intervention and preventive care.

Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System (UVA Health, Charlottesville, VA, USA; www.uvahealth.com) are developing a method to detect biomarkers in blood that can signal ILD risk. Their work builds on previous findings where plasma protein biomarkers predicted survival chances for ILD patients. Using these biomarkers, the team aims to identify adults likely to develop ILD and map molecular differences between early and late stages of the disease.

Published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the study was conducted using data from largescale research programs, including the MultiEthnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) Lung Study and SPIROMICS. The team identified several plasma proteins associated with the development of new-onset ILD. Notably, some of these proteins were highly expressed in the lung tissues of affected patients, suggesting their role in early disease development and offering new insights into ILD pathology.

This biomarker-driven approach could help identify individuals at higher risk for ILD and enroll them in preventive clinical trials before significant lung damage occurs. The method may also complement imaging and genomic tools to enhance diagnostic precision and enable earlier therapeutic intervention. By uncovering molecular pathways involved in ILD, the study could lead to personalized treatment strategies and contribute to reducing lung transplant dependency in the long term.

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Image: The mobile-compatible, AI-powered assistant for malaria improves diagnostic accuracy in real-world rural conditions (Photo courtesy of Universiti Malaya)

Platelets Could Improve Early and Minimally Invasive Detection of Cancer

latelets are widely recognized for their role in blood clotting and scab formation, but they also play a crucial role in immune defense by detecting pathogens and recruiting immune cells. Beyond these roles, early cancer detection remains limited by the scarcity of circulating tumor DNA in the blood, which reduces the sensitivity of liquid biopsy techniques. New findings now reveal that platelets themselves may hold crucial information for improving diagnostics.

A study led by the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research (New York, NY, USA; www.ludwigcancerresearch.org) has shown that platelets absorb fragments of DNA shed by dying cells, including cancer-derived DNA. These saucer-shaped cells, though lacking nuclei, act like sponges, mopping up genetic material that would otherwise accumulate and contribute to inflammation. The discovery suggests that platelets may serve not only in immune regulation but also as powerful tools for detecting disease.

Researchers investigated the unique structure of platelets, which contain a network of membrane-lined channels known as the open canalicular system. These channels enable platelets to collect biomolecules as they circulate, including viral RNA and DNA. Inspired by this property, the team hypothesized that platelets might also capture genomic fragments, a theory supported by earlier research.

Their findings, published in Science, confirm that platelets harbor human cell-free DNA in both lab cultures and clinical samples. To rule out contamination from parent cells, scientists analyzed platelets from pregnant women and successfully predicted fetal sex by detecting Y chromosome fragments in every blood sample analyzed. Additional studies revealed that platelets also take up cancer-specific mutations, even in people with pre-cancerous polyps, highlighting their untapped diagnostic potential.

This discovery opens the door to expanding the sensitivity of liquid biopsies, which currently discard platelets during analysis. By harnessing DNA within platelets, clinicians could detect cancer earlier, improve therapy monitoring, and refine prenatal testing methods. Future research will seek to clarify the role of platelets in the physiological management of cell-free DNA and the fate and consequences of DNA fragments released upon platelet activation.

“We’ve demonstrated that platelets take up DNA fragments that bear the mutational signatures of cancer cells,” said postdoc Lauren Murphy. “This is true not only in patients with advanced cancer but, remarkably, also in people who have pre-cancerous polyps in their colon, suggesting that platelets may offer an additional and so far untapped reservoir of cfDNA that could significantly improve the sensitivity of liquid biopsies.”

ACE FS Innovative Breakthrough in ACE Assessment

Image: Platelets sequester cfDNA during circulation (Murphy L. et al., Science, 2025; DOI: 10.1126/science.adp3971)

The Quidel Triage PlGF Test is used for the diagnosis of preterm pre-eclampsia and as an aid in the prognosis of delivery, in women presenting with signs and symptoms of pre-eclampsia after 20 weeks and before 35 weeks of gestation.

Breakthrough Tool Improves Genetic Testing Accuracy

Genetic testing plays a crucial role in diagnosing disease, but its accuracy depends heavily on understanding how common certain genetic variants are across populations. Most current databases calculate these frequencies using averages across broad groups, which can obscure important ancestry-specific differences. This is especially problematic for people with mixed heritage, such as those with African, European, or Indigenous ancestry, leading to possible variant misclassification. Now, a new approach refines genetic data to make testing more precise across all populations.

Researchers at Texas Children’s Neurological Research Institute (NRI, Houston, TX, USA; www.texaschildrens.org) and Baylor College of Medicine (Houston, TX, USA; www.bcm. edu) have developed an advanced tool within the Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD) that uses local ancestry inference (LAI) to improve the accuracy of genetic testing. The method divides the genome into ancestry-specific segments, allowing more accurate allele frequency estimates for individuals with mixed ancestry. By recalculating how common each genetic variant is within each ancestry compo-

nent, the tool captures genetic variation that global averages miss.

Their study, published in Nature Communications, revealed that in African/ African American and Latino/Admixed American populations, over 80% of genetic sites had higher frequencies in at least one ancestry-specific tract than previously estimated. In many cases, variants once considered rare were shown to be common in certain ancestry backgrounds, crossing key thresholds used to classify them as benign by the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG). These adjustments may prevent false interpretations in clinical diagnostics and lead to more accurate genetic risk assessments.

The ancestry-specific data generated through this study is now integrated into gnomAD, making it publicly accessible to researchers, clinicians, and laboratories worldwide. This development ensures that future genetic testing can account for the diverse ancestry composition of patients, leading to improved variant interpretation and fewer diagnostic errors. The research marks a major step forward toward more equitable and precise genomic medicine.

By acknowledging the complexity of an-

The dIFine automated microscope is a fully automated IFA microscope, which improves the laboratory workflow significantly. With the small footprint of just 40 x 47cm², it can be accommodated in compact laboratory spaces.

cestry, the researchers demonstrated how nuanced data can improve clinical decision-making and reduce health disparities. The refined allele frequencies will help ensure that patients of mixed or underrepresented backgrounds receive genetic assessments that are as accurate as those for populations historically overrepresented in genomic datasets.

“This research updates our genomic resources to better reflect the full spectrum of genetic variation,” said Dr. Elizabeth Atkinson, principal investigator. “By refining allele frequency estimates for admixed populations, we can improve the accuracy of genetic diagnoses and reduce the risk of misclassification – ultimately benefitting patients across all backgrounds.”

Low-Cost One-Hour HPV Test to Transform Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer death in women worldwide, despite being largely preventable. Each year, more than 350,000 women die from the disease, and nearly 90% of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries with limited access to reliable screening. Existing HPV DNA tests require expensive laboratory equipment, delaying results and preventing timely treatment. A new low-cost test now promises faster detection and same-day care for cervical cancer.

Researchers at Rice University (Houston, TX, USA; bioengineering.rice.edu), working with colleagues in Mozambique and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (Houston, TX, USA; www.mdanderson. org), have developed a simple HPV test using loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). The test requires no DNA extraction and runs at a single temperature, enabling rapid processing. A cervicovaginal swab is chemically lysed, added to LAMP reagents, incubated for about 45 minutes in a portable

heater, and read by fluorescence.

The assay targets HPV16, HPV18, and HPV45—responsible for around 75% of cervical cancers—and includes a built-in control to verify sample quality. Designed to work outside conventional laboratories, the test can be performed in under an hour using a battery-powered device, ideal for clinics without reliable electricity. The cost is projected at less than USD 8 per test, significantly lower than traditional methods.

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Image: The new tool could have direct implications for patient diagnoses and care worldwide (Photo courtesy of Texas Children’s Hospital)

Blood Test Offers Affordable and Earlier Detection of Lung Cancer

(LDCT) scans are expensive, inaccessible in many regions, and prone to high false-positive rates. Now, a new blood-based test offers an affordable, accurate, and non-invasive solution capable of detecting lung cancer early and reducing unnecessary imaging procedures.

SeekIn Inc. (San Diego, CA, USA; www.seekincancer.com) has developed LungCanSeek, a novel diagnostic test that uses four protein markers, namely CEA, CYFRA 21-1, ProGRP, and SCCA, combined with artificial intelligence (AI) to detect lung cancer and its subtypes. The test integrates standard laboratory techniques and widely available reagents, making it simple and cost-efficient to implement globally. A multicenter study, which enrolled 1,814 participants, including 1,095 lung cancer patients, validated its accuracy and affordability across diverse populations.

advanced imaging is limited.

The researchers noted that the technology could be seamlessly integrated into national cancer screening programs, boosting early detection rates while easing healthcare system burdens. Its simplicity, high diagnostic precision, and affordability make it a viable candi-

In the study, the researchers ana lyzed blood samples for four protein markers. The AI-driven algorithm combined protein marker levels with participant age and gender to detect lung cancer and its subtypes. This approach enabled accurate identifi cation of lung cancer presence and subtype classification, distinguish ing between lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC), and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). The test’s performance was assessed across both early and late stages of the disease.

The results, published in Translational Lung Cancer Research, showed that LungCanSeek achieved 83.5% sensitivity and 90.3% speci ficity for lung cancer detection, with a 77.4% accuracy rate in classifying subtypes. Sensitivity for early-stage cancers reached 67.2%, marking a critical step toward improving sur vival through earlier intervention. The study also demonstrated the test’s cost-effectiveness, estimating reagent expenses at only USD15 per test, which is significantly lower than traditional imaging-based screenings.

A two-step screening model was proposed in which high-risk individ uals undergo LungCanSeek testing first, and only positive cases proceed to LDCT scans. This approach re duced false positives by more than tenfold and cut screening costs by 2.5 times compared to LDCT alone. The method has the potential to transform large-scale screening pro grams, particularly in low- and mid dle-income countries where access to

stone of future preventive oncology strategies.

“LungCanSeek’s performance surpasses many existing blood-based and imaging-only screening approaches,” said Dr. Mao Mao, Founder and CEO of SeekIn Inc. “Its affordability and ease of use make it especially valuable for expanding early lung cancer detection in

The Shine i3000 is a fully automatic chemiluminescence immunoassay analyzer that delivers up to 300 tests per hour. It is ideal for labs with limited space, offering high performance and open system com-

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CerTest GDH+Lactoferrin is a rapid immunoassay for detecting C.difficile GDH and human lactoferrin in stool. With a 10-minute result time, it is a non-invasive, reliable tool for clinicians to monitor gastrointestinal health.

Instrumentation-Free Molecular Testing Device Detects TB at POC

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global health crisis, killing more than 1.25 million people annually, with nearly one in three cases undiagnosed. In high-burden, resource-limited regions, current diagnostics face serious challenges: the waxy, lipid-rich cell wall of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) resists portable lysis methods, gold-standard molecular tests demand costly infrastructure and skilled operators, and sputum collection often deters patients. Now, a new investigational prototype delivers point-of-care MTB detection without instrumentation, electricity, or lab infrastructure.

Seek Labs (Salt Lake City, UT, USA; www. seeklabs.com) has developed the MTB SeekIt prototype, built on its proprietary modular SeekIt platform. The test integrates lysis chemistry, extraction, amplification, and detection, all exclusively discovered and validated inhouse. The development focused on solving the long-standing barrier of MTB cell wall disruption, achieving a functional prototype in just one quarter. The core innovation lies in a single-step lysis buffer that breaks down MTB cells in 15 minutes at room temperature.

The workflow begins with chemical lysis, followed by Seek Extraction, a membrane-based system that captures MTB DNA

without lab tools, yielding more than 70% compared to leading spin-column kits. Next, Seek Amplification detects as few as 10 genomic copies in 30 minutes without thermal cycling. Finally, a molecular lateral flow assay (mLFA) provides visual results, which can be paired with a mobile app for digital analysis. Together, these steps create a fully instrument-free diagnostic test.

Internal validation confirmed that the MTB SeekIt test delivers accurate results in under 60 minutes. Importantly, it avoids reliance on heat, mechanical disruption, or expensive instruments, making it adaptable to low-resource settings. The company emphasizes that the prototype illustrates the flexibility and speed of the SeekIt platform, showing how similar assays can be rapidly created for other high-priority diseases.

The investigational prototype, based on the modular SeekIt platform, enables point-of-care MTB detection

on clinical validation, regulatory approval, and widespread deployment to close the global TB testing gap.

Seek Labs presented the prototype at the 2025 Next Generation Dx Conference in Washington, D.C. The company is actively pursuing collaborations with ministries of health, TB-focused NGOs, and diagnostics distributors in regions like sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia. Future efforts will focus

“TB diagnostics have long been limited by gaps in both infrastructure and innovation that have often meant severe consequences for patient care and public health,” said Jared Bauer, CEO of Seek Labs. “Our rapid, point-of-care SeekIt MTB test is designed to enable molecular-level detection in settings where access to equipment and electricity may be limited.”

Low-Cost One-Hour HPV Test to Transform Cervical Cancer Screening

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Clinical validation showed strong results, according to the research published in Nature Communications. In 38 samples from Houston, the test achieved 100% agreement with the reference standard. In 191 samples from Maputo, Mozambique, it reached 93% agreement, demonstrating reliability in both high-resource and low-resource settings.

The test’s accessibility opens the door to “screen-and-treat” strategies where women can be screened and treated in a single visit, reducing loss to follow-up. By cutting costs, eliminating complex lab requirements, and delivering results quickly, the tool could help countries meet the WHO’s target to screen 70% of women globally by 2030. Researchers are working to expand coverage to additional HPV types and develop freeze-dried reagents for easier transport.

“Our goal is a complete, field-ready kit that community clinics can use anywhere. If we can help health systems move to same-day screen-and-treat, we can move towards a future where cervical cancer can be eliminated globally,” said Rebecca Richards-Kortum, Malcolm Gillis University Professor of Bioengineering and co-director of the Rice360 Institute for Global Health Technologies at Rice University.

Image:
(Photo courtesy of Seek Labs)

AI Enables Low-Cost Rapid Cancer Scoring

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over USD 100,000, and their large size limits use in many labs and resource-limited settings. To address these challenges, researchers have now developed a compact scanning microscope that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to extract diagnostic value from blurred tissue images at a fraction of the cost.

BlurryScope, a portable, cost-effective scanning microscope, has been designed by researchers at UCLA (Los Angeles, CA, USA; www.ee.ucla. edu) for HER2 scoring in breast cancer tissue samples. Built for under USD 650 and weighing just 2.26 kg, the device measures 35 x 35 x 35 cm, making it highly accessible. Unlike conventional microscopes that capture sharp still images, BlurryScope continuously scans slides, producing motion-blurred images that are then analyzed by a deep neural network trained to classify HER2 expression.

In blinded experiments with 284 patient tissue cores, the system achieved nearly 80% accuracy across standard HER2 scoring categories and almost 90% accuracy when grouped into clinically actionable categories. Repeated scans of the same samples demonstrated reproducibility, with more than 86% of classifications matching across multiple runs. The results, published in npj Digital Medicine, validate both the robustness of the AI and the reliability of the device for clinical application.

BlurryScope automates the workflow from scanning to classification, enabling rapid triage, preliminary assessments, and use in clinics where high-end systems are impractical. Beyond HER2 scoring, the same AI-powered approach could extend to other tissue stains, biomarker analyses, and even different imaging modalities. By co-designing optical systems and AI algorithms, the technology demonstrates a pathway toward simplifying biomedical imaging hardware while broadening diag nostic access worldwide.

“With BlurryScope, we are redefining what affordable microscopy can look like,” said Dr. Aydogan Ozcan, Chancellor’s Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at UCLA. “By harnessing deep learning to interpret motion-blurred images, we can deliver clinically meaningful HER2 scoring at a fraction of the cost and size of conven tional pathology scanners.”

Wireless Sweat Patch Could Be Used as Diagnostic Test for Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease that causes excessive mucus to accumulate in the lungs, impairs digestion, and can affect multiple organs. More than 40,000 children and adults in the U.S. currently live with the disease, which is progressive and often results in early mortality. While treatments exist to improve quality of life, optimizing the use of new drugs outside clinical settings remains a challenge. A new wearable device now offers a way to monitor CF patients more effectively and provide real-time insights into treatment efficacy.

Developed by researchers from Northwestern Medicine (Chicago, IL, USA; www.nm.org) in collaboration with spinout company Epicore Biosystems (Cambridge, MA, USA; www.epicorebiosystems.com), the CF patch is a wireless sticker-like device that measures biomarkers in sweat. The patch is worn on the wrist and includes two channels: one for measuring sweat volume and another for measuring sweat chloride, the key diagnostic marker of CF. Physicians capture an image of the patch using a smartphone or tablet, and color changes are analyzed to provide data comparable in accuracy to laboratory-based testing.

In a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, researchers evaluated the patch’s accuracy against the gold-standard chloride sweat test. To test feasibility, 20 adults with cystic fibrosis and seven healthy controls completed both a clinic-based chloride sweat test and five remote exercise sessions over 14 days while wearing the device. Researchers found that the CF patch

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URISED-LABUMAT Cascade
Image: BlurryScope enables compact, cost-effective scanning microscopy for HER2 scoring using deep learning on blurry images (Photo courtesy of Ozcan Lab at UCLA)

CELIAC DISEASE TEST

The Anti-Gliadin IgG ELISA provides quantitative detection of IgG antibodies against deamidated gliadin peptides. With a colorimetric readout at 450 nm, it provides reliable results for screening and diagnosis of celiac disease.

Multichem S is a tri-level, liquid-stable QC that monitors precision in clinical chemistry and immunology testing procedures. It mimics patient sample performance across 101 analytes, providing high stability and reliability.

Blood Test for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Researchers have now developed a high-accuracy blood test capable of diagnosing ME/CFS with 96 percent accuracy, offering a potential breakthrough for patients.

The discovery was made by scientists at the University of East Anglia (Norwich, UK; www.uea.ac.uk) in collaboration with Oxford BioDynamics (Oxford, UK; www.oxfordbiodynamics.com) using advanced EpiSwitch 3D Genomics technology. The research examined how DNA folds within blood samples from 47 patients with severe ME/CFS and 61 healthy individuals, identifying distinct patterns unique to patients with the condition. The approach uses epigenetic markers—chemical and structural changes in DNA folding—to detect disease signatures, as fixed genetic mutations do not cause ME/CFS.

The study, published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, found that the test achieved 92 percent sensitivity and 98 percent specificity in identifying ME/CFS. These results indicate the test’s strong reliability in distinguishing affected individuals from healthy controls. The researchers also detected immune system and inflammation-related pathways involved in ME/ CFS, providing new biological insights that may guide future therapeutic development.

Image: Advanced EpiSwitch 3D genomics technology could become a vital clinical tool for diagnosing ME/CFS (Photo courtesy of Oxford BioDynamics)

diseases. The team envisions the EpiSwitch CFS test becoming a vital clinical tool, enabling earlier diagnosis, more accurate patient stratification, and targeted treatment strategies.

This blood test represents a significant advancement in diagnosing ME/CFS and could pave the way for a similar approach to detect long Covid, which exhibits overlapping symptoms. By identifying epigenetic signatures rather than genetic mutations, the technology allows for rapid, scalable diagnostics for complex inflammatory and neurological

“This is a significant step forward. For the first time, we have a simple blood test that can reliably identify ME/CFS—potentially transforming how we diagnose and manage this complex disease,” said Professor Dmitry Pshezhetskiy, Professor at the Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, and lead researcher of the study. “We hope that the Episwitch CFS test could become a vital tool in clinical settings, paving the way for more personalised and effective care.”

Wireless Sweat Patch Could Be Used as Diagnostic Test for Cystic Fibrosis

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measured sweat chloride as effectively as tests done in specialized laboratories.

These findings demonstrate that the wearable microfluidic sweat patch can deliver accurate, remote monitoring of sweat chloride in individuals with CF. Such technology could optimize the use of CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) modulator drugs, which improve protein function and disease trajectory, by offering consistent data on treatment effectiveness. The next phase will assess whether the device can guide clinical decision-making more directly in patient care. Going forward, the patch could expand CF screening and monitoring

in rural and under-resourced areas with limited access to diagnostic labs. By providing reliable results outside clinical environments, the device has the potential to expedite diagnosis and improve long-term disease management.

“We wanted to see how accurate our CF patch was relative to the gold standard, whether we could do it remotely at home, and then also see how consistent the sweat chloride is in response to the medications (i.e., CFTR modulators),” said Manu Jain, MD, senior author of the study. “Potentially this could be used as a screening or diagnostic test in parts of the country where sweat testing is not readily available and could expedite the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis.”

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Earlier Detection of Sepsis by New Method

Sepsis remains one of the most dangerous medical emergencies, often progressing rapidly and becoming fatal without timely intervention. Each hour of delayed treatment in septic shock reduces patient survival by nearly 8 percent. Current diagnostic methods depend on bacterial culture, which requires at least a day to detect infections and two to four days to confirm the right antibiotic treatment. Now, a new diagnostic approach for sepsis offers a way to cut this critical time drastically.

Image: Workflow for bacterial detection from blood samples in five steps (M Henar Marino Miguélez et al., NPJ Digit Med, DOI: 10.1038/s41746-025-01948-w)

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology (Stockholm, Sweden; www.kth.se), in collaboration with Uppsala University (Uppsala, Sweden; www.uu.se), have developed a diagnostic method that uses a centrifuge and automated microscopy combined with artificial intelligence (AI). Their system separates bacteria from blood cells using a “smart centrifugation” process and then captures the bacteria in microscale chip channels. The clear liquid layer containing bacteria is analyzed through time-lapse microscopy, with AI software trained to confirm infection in as little as two hours.

The new method was evaluated using blood samples spiked with clinically relevant bacteria. It successfully detected E. coli, K. pneumoniae, and E. faecalis at levels as low as 7–32 colony-forming units per milliliter of blood. However, the findings, published in npj Digital Medicine, showed it was less effective for Staphylococcus aureus, which tends to hide in blood clots, a limitation the researchers are working to overcome.

CRISPR-Based Mouth Swab Test Simplifies Tuberculosis Screening

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Researchers at Tulane University (New Orleans, LA, USA; www. tulane.edu) have developed the ActCRISPR-TB test to enhance sensitivity for samples with very low bacterial counts. The test uses a multi-guide RNA Cas12a assay that amplifies TB DNA signals for faster detection. Designed as a “one-pot” approach, it requires no laboratory or trained staff and produces results in under an hour, similar to the simplicity of a rapid COVID-19 test.

Clinical evaluation showed that the new test identified TB from tongue swabs with a 74% detection rate compared to 56% with conventional methods. Sensitivity remained high across other samples: 93% in respiratory fluids, 83% in pediatric stool, and 93% in adult spinal fluid. The study results, published in Nature Communications, demonstrated faster and more accurate detection than standard nucleic acid tests. By broadening detection to include non-sputum samples, the method could transform TB diagnosis, particularly in low-resource communities where invasive sampling is not feasible. The test allows painless, easily collected swabs and streamlined processing, paving the way for community-based screening. The researchers are also developing portable devices and AIdriven tools to detect drug resistance, paving the way for expanding access, reducing delays, and better connecting patients to effective treatment.

“Tongue swabs are painless, easy to collect, and don’t require trained medical staff,” said lead author Zhen Huang. “That opens the door to large-scale screenings.”

Point Of Care

This advance could allow doctors to start targeted antibiotic treatment much sooner than with traditional culture. Faster diagnosis reduces the need for broad-spectrum antibiotics, which carry risks of toxicity, disruption of gut microbiota, and rising antimicrobial resistance. By confirming bacterial infections within hours rather than days, the method offers safer and more effective treatment pathways.

Future work will focus on adapting the system to detect a wider range of bacteria, improving performance for pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, and preparing for clinical validation. The technology’s combination of speed, sensitivity, and automation positions it as a valuable tool for hospitals worldwide in managing sepsis cases.

“It takes a hospital two to four days before they are sure which antibiotic to treat a bloodstream infection with,” said Wouter van der Wijngaart, a professor at KTH Royal Institute of Technology who leads research in microfluidic and biomedical systems. “We’re trying to do this in four to six hours.”

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Blood Test Predicts Immunotherapy Efficacy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype lacking targeted therapies, making immunotherapy a promising yet unpredictable option. Current biomarkers such as PD-L1 expression or tumor mutational burden often fail to reliably predict success due to the complexity of immune responses. Invasive tumor biopsies are also impractical for frequent monitoring. To address this gap, researchers have now developed a blood-based tool that predicts treatment response with high accuracy.

In the study, researchers from Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center (Shanghai, China), along with collaborators, analyzed plasma samples from 195 TNBC patients undergoing immunotherapy, using high-sensitivity assays to track 92 immune-related proteins before, during, and after treatment. They identified three key proteins—ARG1, NOS3, and CD28—and combined them with others to create the PIPscore, a predictive model with 85.8% accuracy.

The study, published in Cancer Biology & Medicine, revealed dramatic shifts in plasma protein levels after immunotherapy. Responders showed rises in immune-activating proteins like CXCL9 and IFN-γ, while patients with pathologic complete response (pCR) had higher ARG1 and CD28 but lower NOS3. The PIPscore stratified patients into high- and low-response groups with strong precision and predicted 12-month progression-free survival with 96% accuracy.

To validate these findings, the researchers integrated single-cell RNA sequencing to link plasma proteomic changes to the tumor microenvironment. Elevated NOS3 was associated with reduced CD8+ T-cell presence, suggesting immunosuppressive effects, while ARG1’s role in arginine metabolism may enhance T-cell activity. ELISA tests confirmed

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Image: The test could streamline clinical decision-making by identifying ideal candidates for immunotherapy upfront ((Xiao, Y. et al. Cancer Biology & Medicine, July 2025, doi.org/10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2025.0038)

the reliability of the proteomic platform, further strengthening the clinical value of the PIPscore.

The PIPscore’s prognostic power offers oncologists a non-invasive method to guide treatment selection. By identifying ideal candidates for immunotherapy, the model could minimize unnecessary side effects and reduce treatment costs. Its ability to monitor patients in real time also supports dynamic treatment adjustments. Beyond TNBC, this approach may extend to other cancers where immunotherapy response remains highly variable.

“This study transforms how we approach TNBC immunotherapy. By translating complex plasma proteomics into a practical score, we’ve bridged the gap between research and clinical utility. The PIPscore not only predicts response but also opens doors to targeting metabolic pathways like arginine deprivation to overcome resistance. These findings underscore that systemic immunity, not just the tumor microenvironment, dictates treatment success,” said Dr. Yizhou Jiang, co-corresponding author of the study.

AI Tool Helps Surgeons Distinguish Aggressive Glioblastoma from Other Brain Cancers in Real-Time

ccurately distinguishing between brain tumors during surgery is one of the toughest diagnostic challenges in neuro-oncology. Glioblastoma, the most common and aggressive brain tumor, often appears similar to primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), a rarer cancer with different treatment needs. Misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary surgery or delays in proper care. Now, a new artificial intelligence (AI) system allows surgeons to differentiate between these look-alike cancers in real time with near-perfect accuracy.

A research team led by Harvard Medical School (Boston, MA, USA; hms.harvard.edu) has developed an AI tool called PICTURE (Pathology

Image Characterization Tool with Uncertainty-aware Rapid Evaluations). The model was trained to spot critical cancer features such as tumor cell density, cell shape, and necrosis, allowing it to distinguish glioblastoma from PCNSL during operations. What makes PICTURE unique is its uncertainty detector, which alerts doctors when a tumor does not match known patterns and requires human review, ensuring safe integration into high-stakes decisions.

The AI was tested on 2,141 brain pathology slides, including rare frozen and formalin-fixed samples, and evaluated across five hospitals Cont’d on page 15

Blood Test Reveals Biological Aging of Different Body Organs and Systems

USA; medicine.yale.edu) described this new approach, called the Systems Age test, in the journal Nature Aging. Developed using data from over 7,500 people, the test combines blood-based biomarkers such as cholesterol and blood sugar with DNA methylation patterns to provide system-specific biological age scores. By training machine learning models, the team designed a single blood test that can measure aging in 11 systems, including the heart, lungs, brain, metabolism, and immune system.

To validate their method, scientists tested the model on blood samples from more than 8,000 individuals. The results showed it predicted age-related diseases more effectively than older epigenetic clocks. For example, the heart score from the new test was a stronger predictor of heart disease compared to standard biological age measures, demonstrating the tool’s superior diagnostic accuracy.

The findings also revealed significant variability in aging patterns across individuals. People with the same overall biological age often showed different rates of aging across organs. This insight could help doctors identify which systems are most vulnerable and deliver more

Image: Hierarchy of heterogeneity in aging (Photo courtesy of Nature Aging, 2025, DOI: 10.1038/s43587-025-00958-3)

personalized strategies for prevention and treatment, ranging from lifestyle changes to targeted therapies.

“By providing system-specific scores, Systems Age may better pinpoint which age-related conditions individuals are at risk for,” wrote study author Morgan Levine.

Routine Blood Draws Could Detect Epigenetic Biomarkers for Predicting Cardiovascular Risk

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, yet predicting individual risk remains a persistent challenge. Traditional risk factors, while useful, do not fully capture biological changes that contribute to disease onset and progression. Now, a new study has identified epigenetic biomarkers that could provide predictive insights into cardiovascular events and mortality, offering a potential breakthrough for earlier and more accurate risk assessment.

The study, conducted by researchers at Northwestern University (Evanston, IL, USA; feinberg.northwestern.edu), along with collaborators across multiple cohorts, builds on

previous work linking cardiovascular health to epigenetic changes in blood. The team examined DNA methylation patterns, chemical tags that regulate gene activity, across more than 440,000 sites. Using advanced bioinformatics, they investigated how lifestyle and cardiovascular health scores influence methylation, aiming to identify biomarkers that reflect long-term cardiovascular health.

The epigenome-wide association study an-

alyzed over 10,000 participants across five large cohorts, including CARDIA, Framingham Heart Study, and MESA. Results revealed 609 methylation markers significantly associated with cardiovascular health, of which 141 were potentially causal for conditions such as stroke, heart failure, and gestational hypertension. These epigenetic markers proved highly predictive of future cardiovascular events and mortality, independent of traditional risk fac tors, and consistent across diverse popula tions. Individuals with favorable methylation profiles had up to 32% lower cardiovascular disease risk, 40% lower cardiovascular mortal ity, and 45% lower all-cause mortality. These findings, published in Circulation light how simple blood draws could provide a more com prehensive view of patient health and guide preventive care.

“These findings deepen our under standing of how health behaviors get under the skin. Our lifestyles can indeed leave lasting marks on our biology, which is detectable through changes like DNA meth ylation,” said Yinan Zheng, assistant professor and co-author of the study. “Our next steps are centered on translating these findings into clinical practice. We also hope to collaborate with biotech and diagnostics companies to develop affordable, minimally invasive blood test kits that could be used in primary care or preventive cardiology clinics.”

Image: Over 100 new epigenetic biomarkers may help predict cardiovascular disease risk (Photo courtesy of 123RF)

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AMolecular Allergy Chip Detects Allergic Asthma

sthma affects about 300 million people worldwide and is one of the most burdensome chronic lung diseases. Despite medical advances, most patients still receive uniform treatments such as corticosteroids, bronchodilators, or costly biologics, raising concerns about the sustainability of care. Yet for allergic asthma, the most common form, a proven and affordable therapy already exists. A new diagnostic chip now offers a practical and accurate way to identify patients who could benefit.

Developed at Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences (KL Krems, Krems an der Donau, Austria; www.kl.ac.at) in collaboration with the Medical University of Vienna (Vienna, Austria; www.meduniwien. ac.at), the molecular allergy chip contains 63 allergen molecules from airborne sources such as pollens, dust mites, molds, and animal dander. Unlike extract-based tests, it uses purified allergens, enabling precise distinction between true sensitizations and cross-reactions. This design supports individualized treatment decisions and makes the test suitable even for younger patients.

The chip was applied to serum samples from 436 asthma patients in the LEAD cohort study (Lung, hEart, sociAl, boDy). It identified specific IgE sensitizations in over 70% of cases, showing these individuals had allergic asthma. Patients with this form were younger,

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had better lung function, relied less on corticosteroids, and showed distinct clinical characteristics compared to non-allergic patients. These findings highlight that a majority of asthma patients could be treated with allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), a disease-modifying approach that desensitizes the immune system to allergens. The method could reduce exacerbations, improve outcomes, and decrease reliance on expensive biologics. By integrating molecular diagnostics into asthma care, the chip paves the way for a paradigm shift from symptom control to tailored, evidence-based therapy.

World’s First GFAP Lateral Flow Test Demonstrates Potential for Rapid TBI Diagnosis

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) affects millions of people globally each year, ranging from mild concussions to severe neurological trauma. Accurate and timely diagnosis is critical, as delays can lead to poor outcomes and long-term disability. Traditionally, Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP), a biomarker of brain injury, has only been measurable using complex laboratory assays or bulky point-of-care systems that are not ideal for emergency settings. Now, a landmark study has demonstrated the development and successful clinical application of the world’s first lateral flow test for measuring

GFAP, paving the way for rapid and accurate TBI diagnosis.

The novel GFAP lateral flow device developed by Upfront Diagnostics (Cambridge, UK; upfrontdiagnostics.com), in collaboration with global partners, measures GFAP, a protein released into the bloodstream following brain injury that has emerged as a key biomarker for TBI. This handheld diagnostic tool is designed for emergency use and enables healthcare professionals to detect brain injury biomarkers at the point of care.

By translating the principles of traditional lateral flow tests into a format optimized for

neurological biomarkers, the device allows GFAP levels to be measured in minutes. This innovation provides the same speed and sim-

Image: The novel GFAP lateral flow device measures a protein released into the bloodstream following brain injury (Photo courtesy of Upfront Diagnostics)
Image: The new diagnostic chip paves the way for a shift in asthma care from symptom control to personalized therapy (Photo courtesy of 123RF)

AI Tool Distinguishes Aggressive Glioblastoma from Other Brain Cancers

in four countries. The results, published in Nature Communications, showed the model could correctly distinguish glioblastoma from PCNSL more than 98% of the time, outperforming both human pathologists and existing AI tools. Importantly, the model also flagged 67 central nervous system cancers outsid e its main categories, recognizing when it had not seen a tumor type before.

In addition to accuracy, PICTURE addressed a key weakness in current practice. Traditional frozen-section analysis can take 15 minutes but carries error rates of up to 1 in 20 cases, with misdiagnoses occurring in 38% of difficult tumors. The new system minimizes errors, supports clinicians in uncertain cases, and prevents misclassification of rare tumors. It has shown reliable performance during surgery and in cases where human experts disagreed.

Researchers see broad potential for PICTURE to democratize neuropathology, an area with few specialists unevenly distributed worldwide. By providing decision support in real time, the tool could guide treatment in operating rooms, sparing patients with PCNSL from unnecessary surgery while ensuring aggressive resection for glioblastoma cases. Future plans include expanding the model to cover more brain cancer subtypes and integrating genetic and molecular data for deeper insights.

“Our model can minimize errors in diagnosis by distinguishing between tumors with overlapping features and help clinicians determine the best course of treatment based on a tumor’s true identity,” said study senior author Kun-Hsing Yu. “Our model shows reliable performance on frozen sections during brain surgery and in scenarios with significant diagnostic disagreement among human experts.”

World’s First GFAP Lateral Flow Test Demonstrates Potential for Rapid TBI Diagnosis

Cont’d from page 14

plicity as a rapid diagnostic test but with the sensitivity required to aid in life-saving decisions. The landmark study, published in Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology, has reported the successful clinical application of the device. Researchers confirmed its unprecedented speed and accuracy in diagnosing TBI at the bedside. Validation across diverse clinical settings demonstrated that the test could reliably identify patients with brain injury, making it the first proven rapid lateral flow test for GFAP measurement.

The potential applications of this device extend well beyond research. Clinicians will be able to reduce unnecessary CT scans, streamline triage protocols, and accelerate care delivery in emergency departments. By providing reliable results quickly, the test could shorten the time to intervention and significantly improve patient outcomes. Upfront Diagnostics plans to advance this technology further, ensuring that it reaches frontline clinicians globally.

“We are incredibly proud to introduce the first rapid lateral flow GFAP test in history—this is a true game-changer for TBI diagnosis. By enabling fast and reliable GFAP measurement at the point of care, we can empower healthcare professionals to make more informed decisions—potentially saving lives and reducing the long-term consequences of brain injury,” said Dr. Joshua Bernstock, Chief Medical Officer at Upfront Diagnostics.

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Simple Blood Tests Identify Pregnant Women at Risk of Serious Complications from Pre-Eclampsia

igh blood pressure during pregnancy is a serious condition that can lead to pre-eclampsia, affecting up to 2-8% of pregnancies worldwide. This complication can cause seizures, maternal death, stillbirth, and newborn mortality, with around 46,000 maternal and 500,000 fetal or newborn deaths each year. In many lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs), limited access to diagnostic tools and neonatal care makes the timely detection of pre-eclampsia extremely difficult. Now, a new study has identified two blood tests that offer a rapid way to predict which pregnant women with high blood pressure are most at risk of serious complications.

A study led by researchers at King’s College London (London, UK; www.kcl.ac.uk) and collaborators in Sierra Leone demonstrated the value of two simple blood tests called RONIA and Lepzi Quanti. These tests measure levels

of placental growth factor (PlGF), a protein essential for placenta development, which is abnormally low in women with pre-eclampsia. Unlike traditional methods that require lab processing, the tests can be done at the hospital bedside with a finger-prick blood sample, providing results in 15–30 minutes.

The trial involved 488 pregnant women admitted to a hospital in Sierra Leone with suspected pre-eclampsia. The results, published in Hypertension, showed that in women under 34 weeks pregnant, the tests correctly identified 95–100% of those at risk of maternal death or seizures and 100% of babies at risk of stillbirth. Normal results reliably ruled out complications, while abnormal ones indicated a higher risk, guiding the need for closer monitoring or early delivery.

These findings highlight how bedside testing could improve the safety of mothers and

babies in resource-limited settings by helping clinicians prioritize care. The tests are simple, quick, and inexpensive, making them practical for use in hospitals with fewer resources. Building on this success, the NIHR Global Health Research Group PAPAGAIO (Preterm pre-eclampsiA: PlAcental Growth factor testing for reduction of Adverse Outcomes) is working to introduce point-of-care PlGF testing in Brazil, India, Sierra Leone, and Zambia to study its impact on maternal and neonatal outcomes. Serious outcomes such as stillbirths can be easily avoided if we just know who is at risk,” said Professor Andrew Shennan, Professor of Obstetrics at King’s and senior author of the study. “This test accurately provides this knowledge for the first time, and is suitable in settings where stillbirths are common. We are very excited about this test really being able to save lives.”

Brain Inflammation Biomarker Detects Alzheimer’s Years Before Symptoms Appear

Alzheimer’s disease affects millions globally, but patients are often diagnosed only after memory loss and other symptoms appear, when brain damage is already extensive. Detecting the disease much earlier could improve quality of life and reduce its prevalence. Now, a new study has identified a brain inflammation biomarker that increases years before symptoms, suggesting it may help detect Alzheimer’s at its earliest stages.

Researchers at Florida International University (Miami, FL, USA; stempel.fiu.edu) investigated TSPO (or translocator protein 18 kDa), a protein long recognized as a marker of neuroinflammation in degenerative and psychiatric conditions. Using advanced imaging software, they tracked TSPO levels in genetically engineered mouse models of familial

Alzheimer’s and validated results with human brain tissue from families in Colombia carrying the “paisa” mutation, which causes early-onset disease.

In mice, elevated TSPO expression was observed in the subiculum of the hippocampus as early as six weeks of age, equivalent to approximately 18–20 years of age in humans. Microglia clustered around amyloid plaques had the highest TSPO levels, with female mice showing greater increases, mirroring real-world patient patterns. Human tissue from mutation carriers revealed the same trend, with high TSPO persisting even in late-stage Alzheimer’s.

These findings, published in Acta Neuropathologica, confirm TSPO’s potential as an early biomarker and raise new questions about its role—whether it drives damage or

helps protect the brain. Understanding this could open pathways for therapies that block or enhance TSPO to alter disease progression. Researchers are now testing specially developed mouse models lacking TSPO and extending their work to sporadic, late-onset Alzheimer’s, which makes up more than 90% of cases.

“This is the first study to really examine how early this biomarker increases and where it begins rising in the brain. If we can use this information to help delay Alzheimer’s progression by even five years, it can drastically improve patients’ lives and reduce disease prevalence,” said lead researcher Tomás R. Guilarte. “If we can use this information to help delay Alzheimer’s progression by even five years, it can drastically improve patients’ lives and reduce disease prevalence.”

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Dear Colleagues, Dear Friends,

Greetings to all members of the IFCC community! I trust you enjoyed a refreshing summer. As we enter the fall season, the IFCC Executive Board looks forward to working closely with all IFCC functional groups to ensure productive and successful months ahead.

I am pleased to share that the Scientific Program Meeting for WorldLab 2026 (New Delhi) was held online on September 4. The discussions were highly productive, resulting in a brilliant and well-balanced scientific program that is now nearly finalized. This congress promises an outstanding scientific experience, with world-class speakers, innovative sessions, and topics reflecting the latest advancements in our field.

I am also delighted to announce the awardees of the 2025 Spring Call of the Professional Exchange Programmes (PEP). The selected colleagues are: Felicia Robu (Moldova), Felipe Zuniga (Chile), Oliver Schmetzer (Germany), Nobert Chavula (Malawi), Ram Vinod Mahato (Nepal), Rizwana Kausar (Pakistan), Mohamad Hamdan (Palestine), Mohammed Alhaddad (Palestine), Pawel Kozlowski (Poland), Blanca Beumer Prieto (Spain), Yusuf Yesil (Türkiye), Duygu Eryavuz Onmaz (Türkiye), and Trinh Nguyen (Vietnam).

I warmly congratulate all awardees on their achievement and wish them a fruitful and enriching exchange experience.

Our next in-person Executive Board meeting will take place in Sinaia, Romania, on October 7–8, during the 32nd Meeting of the Balkan Clinical Laboratories Federation (BCLF), held jointly with the 16th National Conference of the Romanian Association of Laboratory Medicine at the Sinaia Casino from October 8–11, 2025. I will also attend the BCLF Executive Board meeting in my capacity as the BCLF Past-President and Executive Board member.

IFCC OFFICE

Via Carlo Farini 81, 20159 Milan, ITALY

Tel: (39) 02-6680-9912 • E-mail: ifcc@ifcc.org Web: www.ifcc.org

Staff Members: Paola Bramati, Silvia Cardinale, Silvia Colli-Lanzi, Elisa Fossati, Alison Vianello, Smeralda Skenderaj

It is my great pleasure to share highlights from my recent international engagements in the field of laboratory medicine and clinical biochemistry: 13th International Palestinian Conference for Laboratory Medicine (IPCLM13), 21–23 August, Bethlehem (virtual)

I delivered a plenary lecture on “Urinary Proteomics in Biomarker Discovery of Kidney-Related Disorders, with a focus on diabetic nephropathy and drug-induced nephrotoxicity”. I was also honored to give two keynote lectures: “Methods to Measure Tumor Markers – Clinical Uses of Tumor Markers for Malignancy” and “Traceability in Laboratory Medicine: IVD Directives and IVD Regulations”.

Snibe Academic Conference, 25 August, Shenzhen, China

I participated in this event celebrating 30 years anniversary of its foundation for innovation and collaboration in clinical diagnostics. I presented a talk on “Integrated Diagnostics in Oncology: Bridging Tumor Markers, Liquid Biopsy, Multi-Omics

Cont’d on page 18

Message from the President

and Imaging”. International Conference of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology & Laboratory Medicine (ICBMBLM 2025), 25–27 August, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

38th European Congress of Pathology

12 - 16 September 2026 Stockholm, Sweden

www.espcongress.org

Organized together with the 35th Malaysian Association of Clinical Biochemistry (MACB) and the 49th Malaysian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (MSBMB) Conferences

The meeting provided a valuable platform to share knowledge. I presented three lectures: “Current Innovations, Challenges, and Emerging Trends in Laboratory Medicine”; “Unravelling the Link Between Sleep Apnea, Cardiovascular Disease, and Ageing”, and “Emerging Trends in Tumor Markers: Advancements in Detection, Prognosis, and Personalized Cancer Therapy”.

Hungarian Society of Laboratory Medicine (HSLM) Congress, 29 August, Szeged, Hungary

I delivered a presentation on “Sustainability in Laboratory Medicine” and was deeply honored to receive the honorary membership of the Hungarian Society of Laboratory Medicine (HSLM). I sincerely thank the President and Executive Board of HSLM for this prestigious recognition, which I accept with pride and gratitude.

CUBRA Congress XII, 4-6 September, Argentina (virtual)

I presented a lecture on “Time for a Sustainable Transition Within Medical Laboratories” at the conference organized by the Unified Confederation of Biochemists of the Argentine Republic (CUBRA).

XVII Indonesian Association for Clinical Chemistry (IACC) National Congress, 4-7 September, Malang, East Java, Indonesia (virtual)

I was pleased to contribute a plenary lecture entitled “A Call to Action for Sustainability in Laboratory Medicine”.

XVII National Conference of Clinical Laboratory organized by the Bulgarian Society of Clinical Laboratory (BSCL), 18–20 September, Varna, Bulgaria

Upon the invitation of the BSCL President and Executive Board, I delivered the opening lecture: “Shaping the Future of Laboratory Medicine: Current Innovations, Challenges, and Emerging Trends”. 10th International Congress of the Lebanese Syndicate of Clinical Pathologists (SBDL 2025), 25–27 September, Beirut (virtual)

I was honored to participate virtually to the SBDL Congress and addressed a welcome message to the participants.

International Symposium on Laboratory Medicine

Organized by the Turkish Biochemical Society in Ankara on September 26. I attended the Symposium and delivered a presentation on “Clinical utility of tumor markers measured by immunochemistry: Case Studies in Cancer Diagnosis and Prognosis”.

These events offered invaluable opportunities to exchange knowledge, foster innovation, and strengthen international collaboration. I am proud of our community’s collective commitment to advancing science, quality, and sustainability in laboratory medicine.

As we move into the coming months, I look forward to a productive and inspiring fall season for the IFCC community. I extend my warmest wishes for continued collaboration, innovation, and shared success. With my best regards, Prof. Dr. Tomris Ozben IFCC President

Discovery of a New Variant in Spain: Hb A2-Getafe

Hemoglobinopathies are one of the most common monogenic diseases. They are widely distributed worldwide, and it is estimated that approximately 7% of the population is a heterozygous carrier of hemoglobinopathy. Given this background, it is not surprising that clinical laboratories are obliged to be aware of their existence, know how to identify them, and study the interferences they can cause in other analytical tests, reporting on those that may affect patient management.

In the Clinical Analysis and Clinical Biochemistry Service of the Getafe University Hospital, we measure Hb A1c to aid in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment evaluation of patients with diabetes mellitus. The discovery of this new hemoglobin A2 variant began with a routine analysis of a patient suspected of having prediabetes who presented an anomalous chromatogram on the HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) equipment. This prompted the need to conduct an in-depth study using a chromatographic column specific to hemoglobin variants, revealing an abnormally low Hb A2 value. This finding led to further study and performing the affected tests using an alternative technique such as capillary electrophoresis to verify this different chromatographic pattern and the significantly lower Hb A2 value. A clear decrease in Hb A2 and an additional peak were observed, leading to the suspicion of a structural variant of Hb A2

Since the patient could not be correctly categorized, the next step was molecular analysis of the δ-globin gene (HBD), performed using Sanger sequencing at the Hospital Clínico San Carlos in Madrid, the national reference center for hemoglobinopathies. A previously undescribed mutation was detected: an AAG > ACG change in codon 132 of exon 3, which results in the substitution of the amino acid lysine for threonine at position 10 of the delta-globin helix H. The discovery of this new variant led to its registration in the international database of human hemoglobin variants and thalassemias, HbVar, as Hb A2-Getafe or HBD: c.398C>A, and its subsequent publication in Hemoglobin (https://doi.o rg/10.1080/03630269.2025.2511984), the leading journal in this field.

A vital question now arises: is it clinically relevant? It is true that most mutations in δ-globin are clinically silent, as is the case with Hb A2-Getafe in the patient studied. However, its importance lies in the fact that it can interfere with the interpretation of Hb A2 values, a fundamental parameter in the diagnosis of thalassemias. For example, a falsely low value could mask β-thalassemia, delaying or hindering the correct diagnosis. Therefore, the identification of these variants is essential to avoid diagnostic errors. This study involved the collaboration of different hospitals and different methodologies, which were essential in identifying this new variant. HPLC initially detected an altered profile and a low Hb A2 value in

ADLM MEETING OF THE MINDS

Ready to inspire fellow laboratorians from around the globe and be recognized for your amazing work? Submit your vital research as a poster abstract between November 19, 2025 and February 19, 2026.

At the intersection of innovation and expertise, ADLM 2026 brings together the brightest minds in diagnostics and clinical laboratory medicine. This isn’t just a conference—it’s where boundaries dissolve, bold ideas converge, and collective intelligence moves the field forward.

Visit meeting.myadlm.org/posters for complete poster submission guidelines and more.

Vahid Azimi, MD I’Esha N. Bowens, MHA, MLS, AMT
Photo: Members of the Clinical Analysis and Clinical Biochemistry Department at Getafe University Hospital. From left to right: Carmen Blanco Barros (Head of Department), Yolanda Benito Lobato (Laboratory Technician), Lourdes García del Prisco (Laboratory Technician), Ramiro Antonio Torrado Carrión (Clinical Biochemistry Faculty), and Marta Cruz Maceín (Laboratory Technician).

Protecting Patient Safety and Improving Patient Flow Through the Power of Brain Biomarkers

The impact of traumatic brain injuries (TBI) cannot be overstated. For patients. For their families. For healthcare. The importance of accurate and timely care for traumatic brain injuries is thus equally important. Assessment of TBIs in the emergency department (ED) requires clinical expertise, as well diagnostic tools such as CT scans to accurately determine severity of injuries and determine next steps. Importantly, most TBIs are considered mild (mTBI) and often do not show any abnormalities on CT scans. Patients who ultimately have an mTBI and no abnormalities on a CT represent a group of patients who can potentially forgo a CT scan, thus mitigating exposure to unnecessary radiation, while also enhancing resource utilization related to CT scans and ED patient flow.

With the recent introduction of brain biomarkers into clinical care, the opportunities to enhance patient care, protect safety, and mitigate resource utilization are vast. Two integrated clinical care

Cont’d from page 19

teams were recently recognized with top honors associated with the UNIVANTS of healthcare Excellence awards for their efforts and outcomes associated with implementation of brain biomarkers into care. One team, led by Professor Vincent Sapin, from Centre Hospitalier Universitaire of Clermont-Ferrand, France was able to reduce ED length of stay by an average of 3.35 hours for patients presenting to the ED with mTBI after implementation of S100B testing. Accordingly, 2,300 resource hours were mitigated each year from medical and non-medical staff as a direct result of expedited patient flow, with an associated €5184 in mitigated healthcare costs attributed to 216 avoided CT scans.

Similarly, an integrated clinical care team from Complejo Hospitalario Universitario Nuestra Señora de Candelaria, Spain implemented glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL-1) into clinical practice to help rule-out the need for CT

scans. Through their collaborative efforts, they enabled a 36.8% reduction in unnecessary CT scans for patients being assessed for mTBI, thus protecting patient safety through mitigated exposure to radiation associated with a head CT scan. Additionally, there was a 4.2 hour reduction [from 8.7 hours (SD 16.42) to 4.47 hours (SD 02.95)] in average length of stay for patients assessed for mild traumatic brain injury in the emergency department. This further enabled €274,000 in annual mitigated healthcare costs associated with reduced unnecessary CT scans.

Both these award-winning teams were recognized for their forward-thinking and collaborative efforts for the betterment of health and healthcare. In the spirit of UNIVANTS, they have unified for something greater.

To learn about these teams and their outcomes please visit here. If interested in applying for global recognition through this prestigious award, please visit www. UnivantsHCE.com for more details.

Discovery of a New Variant in Spain: Hb A2-Getafe

a patient in whom no hemoglobinopathy was suspected. Capillary electrophoresis revealed an additional peak consistent with a structural variant.

Finally, the mutation was confirmed using molecular biology techniques, sequencing the HBD gene using Sanger sequencing. This case demonstrates that the complementarity of analytical techniques is essential, as clinical guidelines indicate, for the detection of hemoglobinopathies. It also highlights the ability that Laboratory Medicine specialists must have to frame all the analytical data obtained and guide the various studies, in order to interpret and transform them into useful information for other healthcare professionals and to help patients. This finding contributes to

expanding the catalog of known variants in the HBD gene and reinforces the need to be alert to subtle alterations in chromatograms or electropherograms. Therefore, the importance of attention to detail and clinical-analytical integration must be emphasized. Variants such as Hb A2-Getafe can go unnoticed if the initial findings are not correctly interpreted. Our work as Laboratory Medicine specialists is key to detecting these anomalies, guiding the diagnosis, and, ultimately, improving the care of our patients.

Spanish Society of Laboratory Medicine (SEMEDLAB)

The Spanish Society of Laboratory Medicine (SEMEDLAB) — formally established on January 1, 2025 — is an active member

of the International and European Federations of Clinical Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) and EFLM. It currently encompasses 4,000 professionals and is the result of the merger of three scientific associations of Laboratory Medicine and Clinical Laboratory in Spain: AEBM-ML, AEFA, and SEQC-ML. The Society aims to improve patient service, optimize resources, and strengthen the continuing education of professionals in the sector. Furthermore, with this merger, it seeks to centralize collaboration among experts; improve international outreach, generate more resources, improve legal assistance for members, as well as to optimize continuing education courses, research, and the organization of scientific conferences. For more information: https://semedlab.es/.

Pictured (from left to right): Vincent Sapin, Bruno Pereira, Jeannot Schmidt, Damien Bouvier, Charlotte Oris
Pictured (from left to right): María Teresa Concepción Masip, María Cecilia Martín Fernández de Basoa, Carlos Alberto Marichal Hernández, Pilar González Romero, Mónica Fernández del Castillo Ascanio

BBio-Rad and Biodesix Partner to Develop Droplet Digital PCR High Complexity Assays

io-Rad Laboratories (Hercules, CA, USA; www.bio-rad.com) and Biodesix (Louisville, CO, USA; www.biodesix.com) have expanded their partnership agreement under which Biodesix will conduct the development, clinical validation, and regulatory submissions of IVD assays to enable highly sensitive detection of multiple genomic markers focused on oncology applications, utilizing BioRad’s Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) technology on Bio-Rad’s QX600 platform. Following regulatory clearance, Biodesix will manufacture and distribute dedicated specimen collection kits for the developed assays.

Lumiquick Acquisition to Expand IVD and Research Capabilities

Lumiquick Diagnostics (Santa Clara, CA, USA; www.lumiquick. com), a developer and manufacturer of in vitro diagnostic (IVD) tests, has acquired AOXRE LLC (Burlingame, CA, USA; www. aoxre.com), which is recognized for its innovative OxisResearch product line. At the heart of the OxisResearch product line are the Bioxytech assay kits targeting oxidative and nitrosative stress biomarkers.

This strategic acquisition marks a significant milestone for Lumiquick as it continues to expand its global footprint and product portfolio in the IVD & research industries. AOXRE’s expertise, technology, and customer relationships will be fully integrated into Lumiquick’s operations, strengthening the company’s position as a comprehensive provider of high-quality diagnostic and research tools.

Terumo BCT and Hemex Health to Collaborate in Hemoglobin Testing

Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies (Terumo BCT, Lakewood, CO, USA; www.terumobct.com) and Hemex Health (Portland, OR, USA; www.hemexhealth.com) have entered into a collaboration to improve access to hemoglobin variant testing using Gazelle, an advanced point-of-care diagnostic platform. Terumo BCT has also made a strategic minority investment in Hemex Health to support innovation and accelerate the adoption of this portable testing tool. The partnership focuses on expanding clinical research, digital integration, and regional pilot programs designed to make diagnostic services more widely available in underserved communities.

Gazelle is a compact, rugged, battery-operated in vitro diagnostic platform that uses artificial intelligence, optical technology, and miniaturization to deliver rapid and accurate test results. Designed for affordability and ease of use, the device can be operated by entry-level healthcare workers in areas lacking infrastructure or electricity. The system captures and stores digital patient data for review or transmission, enabling early diagnosis of sickle cell disease and other hemoglobin disorders even in remote settings.

Bio-Techne and Oxford Nanopore to Accelerate Development of Genetics Portfolio

Bio-Techne Corporation (Minneapolis, MN, USA; www. bio-techne.com) has expanded its agreement with Oxford Nanopore Technologies (Oxford, UK; www.nanoporetech. com) to broaden Bio-Techne’s ability to develop a portfolio of genetic products on Oxford Nanopore Technologies platforms and extend the collaboration through 2032.

Building upon the successful launch of the AmplideX Nanopore Carrier Plus Kit in March 2025, the enhanced collaboration streamlines coordination on the development and commercialization of a broader portfolio of targeted enrichment sequencing kits for the screening and diagnosis of heritable genetic disorders.

The first assays to be validated under the agreement include Bio-Rad’s ddPLEX ESR1 Mutation Detection Assay.

ESR1 testing is becoming critical in HR+/HER2- advanced breast cancer due to the clinically demonstrated survival benefits from a new generation of therapy called oral selective estrogen receptor degraders (SERDs). The ddPLEX ESR1 Mutation assay will enable highly sensitive detection and absolute quantification of multiple ESR1 mutations from ctDNA samples.

Once validated, the ESR1 assay will be offered as a test service at Biodesix’ accredited CLIA-CAP laboratory for biopharma customers to support the development of targeted therapeutics, as well as for clinical customers to support cancer treatment monitoring.

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NOVEMBER

APCCMI 2025 – 20th Asia Pacific Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infection. Nov 2-4; Bangkok, Thailand; apccmi2025.com

6th SMLC Congress – Chilean Medical Society of Clinical Laboratory (SMLC). Nov 5-6; Santiago, Chile; smlc.cl 57th SIBioC National Congress – Italian Society of Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Nov 5-7; Bologna, Italy; sibioc.it

8th ESPT Congress – European Society for Pharmacogenomics and Personalised Therapy. Nov 5-8; Rotterdam, Netherlands; esptcongress.org

73rd Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Society of Cytopathology (ASC). Nov 5-9; St. Louis, MO, USA; cytopathology.org

65th Annual Academic Assembly of the Japan Society of Clinical Chemistry (JSCC). Nov 7-9; Nagoya, Japan; jscc-jp.gr.jp

AMP 2025 – Association for Molecular Pathology Annual Meeting & Expo. Nov 11-15; Boston, MA, USA; amp25.amp.org

LABCLIN 2025 – 19th Spanish National Congress of Laboratory Medicine. Nov 12-14; Valencia, Spain; labclin. org

Annual Meeting of the RBSLM – Royal Belgian Society of Laboratory Medicine. Nov 13-14; Brussels, Belgium; rbslm.be

47th Annual Conference of the Association of Clinical Biochemists in Ireland (ACBI). Nov 14-15; Athlone, Ireland; acbi.ie

46th Annual Meeting of the American College of Toxicology (ACT). Nov 16-19; Phoenix, AZ, USA; actox.org

MEDICA 2025. Nov 17-20; Dusseldorf, Germany; medica-tradefair.com

ASCP 2025 – Annual Meeting of the American Society for Clinical Pathology. Nov 17-20; Atlanta, GA, USA; ascp.org

ASLM Special Convention on Diagnostics 2025 – African Society for Laboratory Medicine. Nov 25-27; Nairobi, Kenya; aslm.org

DECEMBER

11th Annual Conference of the Saudi Society for Clinical Chemistry (SSCC). Dec 1-3; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; sscc.med.sa

ASI 2025 – Annual Scientific Meeting of the Australian and New Zealand Society for Immunology. Dec 1-5; Perth, Australia; immunology.org.au

67th Annual Meeting & Exposition of the American Society of Hematology (ASH). Dec 6-9; Orlando, FL, USA; hematology.org

7th EFLM Conference on Preanalytical Phase. Dec 1213; Padua, Italy; eflmpreanalytical.org

AMBICON 2025 - 32nd Annual National Conference of Association of Medical Biochemists of India. Dec 12-14; Coimbatore, India; ambicon2025.org

2026

FEBRUARY

50th Labquality Days 2026 – International Congress on Quality in Laboratory Medicine. Feb 5-6; Helsinki, Finland; labqualitydays.fi

SLAS2026 International Congress & Exhibition. Feb 711; Boston, MA, USA; slas.org

WHX Labs Dubai 2026. Feb 10-13; Dubai, UAE; worldhealthexpo.com

5th International Laboratory Diagnostics Congress. Feb 15-18; Virtual; ldcongress.com

MARCH

35th Annual Meeting of the Society of Virology (GfV). Mar 17-20; Heidelberg, Germany; virology-meeting.de

USCAP 115th Annual Meeting – United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology. Mar 21-26; San Antonio, TX, USA; uscap.org

CACLP 2026 – 23rd China International In Vitro Diagnostic Expo. Mar 21-23; Xiamen, China; en.caclp.com

APRIL

Immunology 2026 – Annual Meeting of the American Association of Immunologists (AAI). Apr 15-19; Boston, MA, USA; aai.org

Expomed Eurasia 2026. Apr 16-18; Istanbul, Turkey; expomedistanbul.com

ISLH 2026 Congress – International Society for Laboratory Hematology. Apr 17-19; Edinburgh, Scotland, UK; islh.org

ESCMID Global 2026. Apr 17-21; Munich, Germany; escmid.org

Expolab 2026 – 26th Mexican National Congress of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine. Apr 30May 3; Puebla, Mexico; fenacqc.org.mx

MAY

BALM 2026 – 18th Baltic Congress of Laboratory Medicine. May 14-16; Riga, Latvia; lsb.lv

SLAS Europe 2026 Conference and Exhibition – Society of Laboratory Automation and Screening. May 19-21; Vienna, Austria; slas.org

Hospitalar 2026. May 19-22; Sao Paulo, Brazil; hospitalar.com

109th Annual Meeting of the German Society for Pathology (DGP). May 28-30; Augsburg, Germany; pathologie-dgp.de

2026 ASCO Annual Meeting – American Society of Clini-

cal Oncology. May 29 - Jun 2; Chicago, IL, USA; asco.org

JUNE

WHX Labs Lagos 2026. Jun 2-4; Lagos, Nigeria; worldhealthexpo.com

ICE 2026 – 22nd International Congress of Endocrinology. Jun 2-6; Kyoto, Japan; isendo.org

ASM Microbe 2026 – American Society for Microbiology. Jun 4-8; Washington, DC, USA; asm.org

FOCIS 2026 – Annual Meeting of the Federation of Clinical Immunology Societies. Jun 9-12; San Francisco, CA, USA; focisnet.org

EHA 2026 Congress – European Hematology Association. Jun 11-14; Stockholm, Sweden; ehaweb.org

EAACI 2026 – Annual Congress of the European Academy of Allergy & Clinical Immunology. Jun 12-15; Istanbul, Turkey; eaaci.org

ESHG 2026 Hybrid Conference – European Society of Human Genetics. Jun 13-16; Gothenburg, Sweden; 2026.eshg.org

AMP Europe 2026 - Association for Molecular Pathology. Jun 15-17; Tallinn, Estonia; amp-europe-congress. com

WHX Miami 2026. June 17-19; Miami, FL, USA; worldhealthexpo.com

ISMD 2026 – 14th International Symposium on Molecular Diagnostics – Austrian Society for Laboratory Medicine and Clinical Chemistry. Jun 18-19; Graz, Austria; oeglmkc.at

11th FIDSSA Congress – Federation of Infectious Diseases Societies of Southern Africa. Jun 18-20. Cape Town, South Africa; fidssacongress.co.za

ISBT International Congress 2026 – International Society of Blood Transfusion. Jun 20-24; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; isbtweb.org

51st CBAC – Congress of the Brazilian Society of Clinical Analysis. Jun 28 - Jul 1; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; sbac. org.br

ECB 2026 – European Congress on Biotechnology. Jun 28 – Jul 1; Antwerp, Belgium; efbiotechnology.org JULY

50th FEBS Congress – Federation of European Biochemical Societies. Jul 4-8; Maastricht, Netherlands; febs.org

WHX Labs Bangkok 2026 (formerly Medlab Asia). Jul 810; Bangkok, Thailand; worldhealthexpo.com

ISTH 2026 Congress – International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis. Jul 11-15; Paris, France; isthcongress.org

2026 ADLM Annual Scientific Meeting & Clinical Lab Expo. Jul 26-30; Anaheim, CA, USA; meeting.myadlm.org

ASV 2026 – 45th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Virology. Jul 27-30; Minneapolis, Minnesota; asv.org

SEPTEMBER

Thailand Lab International 2026. Sep 2-4; Bangkok, Thailand; thailandlab.com

WHX Labs Nairobi 2026. Sep 2-4; Nairobi, Kenya; worldhealthexpo.com

ECP 2026 – 38th Congress of the European Society of Pathology. Sep 12-16 Stockholm, Sweden; espcongress.org

EUROTOX 2026 – 60th Congress of the European Societies of Toxicology. Sep 13-16; Vienna, Austria; eurotox. com

ESCV 2026 – 28th Annual Meeting of the European Society of Clinical Virology. Sep 16-19; Porto, Portugal; escv2026.org

NFFK 2026 – Nordic Congress in Clinical Biochemistry. Sep 15-18; Aarhus, Denmark; nfkk.org

IATDMCT 2026 – 24th International Congress of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring & Clinical Toxicology. Sep 2730; Rennes, France; iatdmct.org

EASD 2026 – European Association for the Study of Diabetes. Sep 28 - Oct 2; Milan, Italy; easd.org

OCTOBER

CAP26 – Annual Meeting of the College of American Pathologists. Oct 3-6; Las Vegas, NV, USA; cap.org

ECC 2026 – 46th European Congress of Cytology. Oct 47; Antwerp, Belgium; cytology2026.eu

COLABIOCLI 2026 – 27th Latin American Congress of Clinical Biochemistry. Oct 7-11; Santa Cruz, Bolivia; colabiocli.com

MASCL 2026 – Congress of the Association for Mass Spectrometry & Advances in Clinical Lab. Oct 4-9; Montreal, Canada; msacl.org

WHX Labs Cape Town 2026 (formerly Medlab Africa). Oct 13-15; Cape Town, South Africa; worldhealthexpo. com

IFCC WorldLab – 27th International Congress of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine. Oct 25-29; New Delhi, India; ifccnewdelhi2026.org NOVEMBER

AMP 2026 – Association for Molecular Pathology Annual Meeting & Expo. Nov 10-14; Seattle, WA, USA; amp.org

MEDICA 2026. Nov 16-19; Düsseldorf, Germany; medica-tradefair.com

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