Symposium explores advances in brain tumour diagnosis and care

Joanna Cull 2 min read

Professor Petra Hamerlik, a member of our Scientific and Medical Advisory Board (SMAB), yesterday (2nd July) hosted the Navigating Brain Tumour Diagnosis: Innovations and Strategies Symposium, in Manchester. 

The symposium brought together a dynamic community of researchers, clinicians and industry experts from around the world to explore the latest advancements in brain tumour diagnosis and care. Discussions focused on novel emerging diagnostic tools and techniques aimed at early detection and non-invasive monitoring of brain tumours. 

The event opened with a warm welcome from Professor Hamerlik, who emphasised the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the need to keep patients at the centre of innovation. The symposium featured a series of inspiring keynote presentations. Among them, Professor Matthew Baker from the University of Central Lancashire and CEO of Dxcover, who shared insights into technological advances in liquid biopsies and their potential application in a primary care setting. Following this, Professor Stavros Stivaros, from the University of Manchester, highlighted the critical role of multiparametric imaging in the early detection and diagnosis of brain tumours. He also advocated for the use of standardised imaging protocols across the NHS and internationally, particularly in paediatric care. 

A standout moment of the day was the series of four flash talks delivered by PhD students and postdoctoral researchers. Their research covered a range of cutting-edge topics –  from using tear-based liquid biopsies for early detection and monitoring of low-grade gliomas, to novel blood biomarkers for glioblastoma patients and the development of AI-driven diagnostic tools that can act as a clinical decision support system for paediatric brain tumours. 

One of the most engaging sessions was the mini-workshop titled “Bridging the Gap: Tools and Assays for Early Detection and Non-Invasive Monitoring of Brain Tumours”, led by Professor Catherine McBain. This session stood out for its practical, patient-voice focus, aiming to align technological innovation with the real-world, point-of-care needs of clinicians and patients. The workshop fostered open dialogue and highlighted specific gaps in current diagnostic tools and assays. 

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Dr Joanna Cull, Research Funding Officer
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