Researchers aim for rapid biomarker diagnostic test for stroke, using saliva

Birmingham researchers are set to collaborate on a study that could result in a rapid non-invasive diagnostic test to identify stroke patients who need time-critical treatment before irreversible brain damage occurs.

Funded by the Stroke Association, the Golden HOur for STroke (GHoST) study will involve the West Midlands Ambulance Service University NHS Foundation Trust, Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, and University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust and industry partner Marker Diagnostics.

Ambulance personnel currently use symptom checklists to identify stroke, with a full assessment usually taking place at a Hyperacute Stroke Unit and followed by transfer to a specialist neuroscience unit for treatment. In the UK, this transfer can add at least an hour to the treatment pathway.

The GHoST study, led by Professor Antonio Belli, professor of Trauma Neurosurgery at the University of Birmingham’s Institute of

Inflammation & Ageing, aims to identify biomarkers in blood, urine, or saliva, that will enable rapid diagnosis so patients can be routed directly to the most appropriate treatment centre.

Professor Belli’s research team has previously identified that the concentration of specific molecules in saliva changes rapidly after a traumatic brain injury. A three-year study in elite rugby established that these biomarkers can be used in nextgeneration diagnostic tests that can rapidly and reliably detect concussion.

He explained: “Our previous studies detected ultra-early biomarkers and cellular responses that had never been reported in human studies before and resulted in a non-invasive diagnostic test that could change the way concussion is managed. In conjunction with our industry partner Marker Diagnostics, we’re now looking to repeat this success with stroke.”

The study will run for three years, with results expected in late 2026.

Cogniss, a no-code ecosystem for digital health, has launched its new global headquarters in Cambridge, UK, as the tech company's growing user base of health innovators acceleraters in the UK and Europe.

The establishment of the new headquarters follows Cogniss's recently announced partnership with ORCHA, and the appointment of experienced digital health leader Dr Lloyd Humphreys as managing director.

“There’s never been a more important time for the power of technology to help support our health workers and systems,” said Dr Humphreys.

“We know that the real innovation in healthcare is driven by the passionate workers on the frontline and we are excited to help drive a change in the way patients can access life-changing treatment and support products - by empowering clinical practitioners and entrepreneurs to create their own digital health products.”

Cogniss CEO and founder, Leon Young, said the decision to move the company’s global headquarters ‘next door’ to some of the world’s most ground-breaking research hubs made perfect sense.

“At Cogniss, our whole purpose is to drive a paradigm shift in the way digital health can be delivered to patients, giving those with the subject matter expertise the ability to digitise and scale their work on their own - with quick development, low cost, best-inclass features and productised security and privacy. We're already delighted to be working with many incredible health practitioners in the UK and look forward to supporting many more.

Distec will be adding medical displays from LG Electronics UK to its medical technology portfolio. The medical displays from LG Electronics UK are a range of surgical and clinical monitors, designed to offer the best in class within a medical environment.

The healthcare technology sector is one of the fastest moving sections of the technology industry. Distec already partner with some leading specialists in healthcare technology and delivers a range of products including medical grade PCs and medical grade monitors.

LG Electronics UK has developed these monitors for the healthcare industry, with durable, dustproof and water resistance technology.

Andy Byrne, sales and operations manager at Distec said: “The partnership between Distec and LG Electronics UK will enhance the quality of care for patients in the NHS. We hope to do this by providing healthcare professionals with the best technology in order to provide the best care to their patients.”

Philip Mitchell, channel manager at LG Electronics, added: “LG Electronics UK is committed to manufacturing the latest technology for the healthcare market. This new partnership with Distec will ensure that we are connecting with the professionals in the healthcare sector that need our solutions the most and facilitate our growth in the UK market.”