Core Biochemical Assay Laboratory official opening

A leading laboratory based at Addenbrooke’s has been revamped. The Core Biochemical Assay Laboratory has officially opened, providing expanded state-of-the- art facilities. The laboratory is involved in major international and national studies, including research into diabetes and drug development. Staff analyse samples for researchers from both academic and commercial institutions. Typically, they will carry out 50 – 75,000 analyses for researchers every year.

The laboratory is part of the Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre – one of five Comprehensive Biomedical Research Centres in the UK funded by the National Institute for Health Research. It is staffed by Cambridge University Hospitals staff.

Professor Steve O’Rahilly, Professor of Clinical Biochemistry and Medicine at the Institute of Metabolic Sciences, said: “This facility is a collaboration between the academic researchers of the University of Cambridge and the clinicians of Cambridge University Hospitals looking towards the future of medicine.

”It is also an organisation where experimental medicine projects meet the patients who could benefit from their success. We hope that our substantial research infrastructure, skilled staff, solid financing and excellent working environment will attract leading researchers from around the world to join our efforts.”

The laboratory is involved in a number of on-going studies including research into the causes and treatment of diabetes and obesity and the development of blood tests which may predict the onset of pre-eclampsia in pregnancy.

Maggie Hales, widow of Professor Nick Hales who was head of Clinical Biochemistry at Addenbrooke’s during the 1980s and 90s, officially opened the refurbished laboratory on Monday 27 July.

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