Randox named as Company of the year
Randox named as Company of the year
Randox tops the charts in Belfast Telegraph Top 100 Companies
Randox is the largest blood-sciences healthcare diagnostics company from the UK and Ireland. Established in 1982 by managing director Dr Peter FitzGerald, Randox manufactures more than four billion tests per year and has a global sales and distribution network supplying product to 145 countries. Randox estimates more than 400 million people, around 5% of the world’s population, receive a diagnosis involving Randox products each year. Key facilities are located at multiple sites within Northern Ireland, in Co Donegal, in West Virginia in the United States and in Bengaluru, India.
As a privately-owned company Randox invests heavily in research and development, committing up to 25% of turnover for the development of new diagnostic products. Recent testing developments include: Type 1 Diabetes Genetic Risk Score; an advanced PSA test to improve the predictive potential of PSA alone for prostate cancer; predictive bladder cancer testing panels; risk assessment for post operative acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease; and wide-ranging quality control and external quality assurance capabilities to ensure the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results.
Randox’s innovative approach to R&D has allowed the development of allied capabilities outside the immediate world of human healthcare, including leading testing capabilities in the veterinary field, for toxicology and for the detection of harmful drug residues and pathogens in food.
Research and development programmes are not limited to the development of tests, but also includes the advanced analyser systems to process samples efficiently. This requires integral, advanced capabilities in electrical and mechanical engineering, optics, robotics and software engineering.
Over £350m of investment has supported the development of a unique testing system to allow multiple tests to be run simultaneously on a single sample – the Randox Biochip. This 9mm x 9mm platform, which allows up to 49 tests to be run simultaneously, greatly increases the diagnostic power available to clinicians to enable earlier, more accurate diagnosis and improved patient outcomes. Initially focused on proteomics, Randox has also greatly increased its genetic testing capabilities to increase predictive capabilities.
In order to support the model of diagnostically-led healthcare, Randox has developed the Randox Health brand, to provide public access to comprehensive testing. The aim is to empower the consumer and to enable a preventative approach to healthcare – rather than rely upon the treatment of illness. Well over 20 clinics are now available across the UK and Ireland, including in partnership within John Lewis stores.
At the outset of the Covid-19 pandemic Randox was ideally placed to support the UK’s requirement for a national Covid-19 testing programme. By mid-February 2020 Randox were amongst the global frontrunners in developing a Covid-19 test and had developed home sample collection and reporting capabilities. The company was engaged by Government from mid-March 2020 to support the UK’s national testing programme – at that time the complete NHS testing capability for Covid-19 was reported as 2,400 tests per day.
Rising to meet this unprecedented national demand markedly increased company turnover and profits. A post-pandemic assessment by consultants OCO Global concluded that Randox’s activities during the pandemic averted over 3,100 deaths, prevented 14,100 hospitalizations and enabled a £8.3bn contribution to the UK’s GDP.
Exiting from the pandemic and reverting to sector norms with a strong balance sheet, Randox is investing heavily in upgrading the company’s infrastructure and R&D programmes. Randox is also investing significant resources in expanding the business-to-consumer diagnostic offer under the Randox Health brand – with clinics in the UK and Ireland, and US.
Noting the pressures upon all healthcare systems, and a need to transition from ‘illness management’ to more sustainable ‘prevention’ models, Randox is investing heavily for the future. Its aim is to ensure it is well positioned to support and enable healthcare transformation through improved diagnostics, to both increase system efficiencies and improve patient outcomes.
Joe Kennedy III, US special envoy for economic affairs visited Randox Science Park in Antrim last week to listen for presentations on Randox Laboratories MultiSTAT and RABTA analysers. He wrote in a foreword to the Belfast Telegraph article, “I congratulate everyone who has contributed to the success of Northern Ireland’s Top 100 Companies. “From globally-recognised brands to indigenous firms, each company reflects the wide diversity of employers who generate prosperity and opportunity right across Northern Ireland.”
Randox managing director Dr. Peter FitzGerald said it welcomed the accolade of being named number one company.
“These results reflect the skills, commitment and agility of our people, and the capability of our unique technologies.
“As a team we were also able to call upon 40 years of diagnostic experience to meet the exceptional demands of Covid-19, while simultaneously supporting our established global customer base of healthcare laboratories. Crucial to this was our long term commitment to research and development which has always been a cornerstone of our business philosophy.
“Randox is committed to enhancing healthcare through more sensitive and accurate diagnostics to enable the prevention of disease and improve healthcare outcomes, whilst reducing the burden on healthcare services.
“Our profits will continue to be directed towards enabling our infrastructure and research and development, as well as accelerating better healthcare models and improving direct public access through our Randox Health clinics. Our ambition is to enable better health outcomes for all and we are committed to that goal.”
Randox’s Sustainable Success with carbonfit
In the dynamic diagnostic testing sector, Randox is leading the charge towards sustainability with a clear vision and strategic partnership with carbonfit. Randox have a commitment to reducing carbon emissions and embracing renewable energy solutions which is setting a new standard for environmental responsibility within the industry.
- Aiming for complete elimination of emissions by 2050 whilst hitting milestones in the years leading up to this.
- Additionally, they are targeting a remarkable 95% reduction in Scope 3 emissions by 2050 whilst hitting milestones in the years leading up to this.
- Additionally, they are targeting a remarkable 95% reduction in Scope 3 emissions by 2050. These goals highlight Randox’s proactive approach to mitigating their environmental impact and aligning with global sustainability objectives.
Partnering with carbonfit, Randox has implemented a comprehensive carbon reduction plan that has yielded significant results. They have identified and implemented energy-saving measures that resulted substantial savings of c.600,000 kWh and a notable reduction of over 1,800 metric tonnes of C02 equivalent (TCO2e). These efforts have not only contributed to environmental sustainability but have also led to financial savings of approximately £180,000 per year, demonstrating the synergies between sustainability and business efficiency.
Randox’s commitment to renewable energy is evident through their planned installation of solar PV systems in 2023 and 2024. By embracing clean energy technologies, Randox is further reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to a more sustainable energy landscape.
One of the main drivers for Randox to work with carbonfit was the need for a more efficient and advanced approach to managing carbon and energy. Transitioning away from manual spreadsheet-based methods, Randox leveraged carbonfit’s sophisticated platform for real-time data management, regulatory requirements including ESOS (Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme), PPN06/21 (Publicly Available Specification for the Assessment of the Life Cycle Greenhouse Gas Emissions of Goods and Services), and SECR (Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting), empowering Randox with streamlined operations and enhanced sustainability practices.
Randox’s partnership with carbonfit exemplifies their dedication to innovation, sustainability leadership, and responsible corporate practices. Together, they are driving meaningful change towards a greener future, where environmental stewardship and operational excellence go hand in hand.
PCR rapid tests for Candida auris for Vivalytic by Bosch now available
World’s first fully automated PCR test for detection of the multidrug-resistant fungus at the point of care.
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Vivalytic test detects Candida auris in under an hour at the point of care, making it the world’s first test suitable for screenings.
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Candida auris infection rates are on the rise in Germany and can cause severe infections, for example in the bloodstream (sepsis).
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Hospitals can use the new screening test to detect colonization, allowing them to implement measures to contain outbreaks.
Bosch Healthcare solutions has developed a PCR test for detecting Candida auris (C. auris) and on the Vivalytic platform. The test is a global innovation now available for order from distribution partners including Randox Laboratories Ltd. and R-Biopharm. This test enables the fully automated detection of the frequently multi-resistant fungus in less than an hour at the point of care. The rapid testing capability also makes it suitable for carrying out screenings when necessary. In contrast, traditional culture tests in centralized laboratories require one to three days, delaying diagnosis and the initiation of targeted treatment. “Considering the heightened risk of severe progression in individuals with pre-existing conditions, we have developed a new test that enables clinics to respond more swiftly,” states Marc Meier, managing director of Bosch Healthcare Solutions. Patients with compromised immune systems, such as those in intensive care, individuals with serious underlying conditions such as diabetes, or those who are immunosuppressed due to cancer or HIV, as well as patients about to undergo invasive surgery, face a heightened risk of active infection with C. auris. The mortality rate for C. auris infections ranges from 30 to 72 percent.
“Candida auris can be transmitted from person to person through contact and contaminated surfaces. When this fungus presents, rapid detection is therefore rapid detection is therefore paramount to enable implementation of effective control and prevention strategies,” says Dr. med. Alexander Maximillian Aldejohann, deputy head of the Würzburg Laboratory at the National Reference Center for Invasive Fungal Infections (NRZMyk.) Since July 2023, Germany has implemented a limited statutory reporting requirement under the Infection Protection Act. Aldejohann is in favor of extending this reporting obligation: “The fungus has the capacity to rapidly develop resistance to many common antifungal agents coupled with the ability to survive for a relatively long time on surfaces. This high so-called tenacity also increases the risk of outbreaks that are difficult to contain.”
Increasing spread of Candida auris
C. auris is spreading globally. In some states in the U.S, the annual incidence rate has been shown to increase by a factor of 2 to 3. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) also drew attention to a rise in cases within Germany during the past year in the Epidemiological Bulletin at the at the beginning of May. The RKI points out that in specific areas screening could be beneficial. In the U.S, the annual case count has in the meantime reached the thousands. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) already consider the screening of patients, visitors, and staff for C. auris as a crucial strategy to curb its spread in healthcare settings. While the fungus is harmless for healthy individuals, it can it can lead to severe nosocomial infections, i.e. infections acquired in hospitals or other healthcare environments, in patients at high risk and, if the fungus enters the bloodstream, can trigger sepsis.
Easy handling, rapid detection The Vivalytic Analyser enables effortless testing directly at the point of care: The sample is placed into the test cartridge, which already contains all necessary reagents. The cartridge is then inserted into the Vivalytic Analyser for automated processing. Healthcare professionals require only minimal training to use the system, and the fully automated process significantly lowers the risk of infection. The Vivalytic Analyser thus facilitates rapid and precise diagnostics in PCR quality, bypassing the frequently lengthy process through a central laboratory. Bosch Healthcare Solutions is expecting CE certification for the Vivalytic C. auris test soon.
For More Information Please Contact:
Martin Conway, Phone: +44 (0) 28 9442 2413
E-mail: martin.conway@randox.co
Dementia Action Week 2024
Dementia Action Week 2024 (13th – 20th May)
The term Dementia describes the different brain disorders that trigger a loss of brain function. These conditions are all usually progressive and eventually severe. Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common type of dementia, affecting 62 per cent of all those diagnosed.
Dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. Common symptoms include memory loss, confusion, and speech problems. Early warning signs may also include finding it difficult to follow conversations, or programs on TV, forgetting names of friends, or everyday objects and feeling confused even in a familiar environment.
Mainly affecting older people, after the age of 65, the likelihood of developing dementia roughly doubles every five years – however, for some dementia can develop earlier, presenting different issues for the person affected, their carer and their family. There is also a considerable economic cost associated with the disease estimated at £23 billion a year, which is predicted to triple by 2040. This is more than the cost of cancer, heart disease, and stroke.
At Randox, we recognise the importance in diagnosing dementia early. Through our Randox Alzheimer’s Disease Array which can be used for Rapid Identification of Alzheimer’s Disease Risk. Randox’s Alzheimer’s Disease Risk Array can be used for the direct determination of ApoE4 status from plasma, eliminating the need for genetic testing, assisting in clinical research and personalised medicine strategies. At Randox, we believe the importance of measuring ApoE4 protein expression in plasma is the way forward to screen those individuals at increased risk of Alzheimer Disease, as new beta amyloid-targeting therapies for this condition are being expected.
Race Against Dementia have been the partner charity for the Randox Grand National Festival over the past two years, working alongside this charity which was founded by three-times Formula One World Champion, Sir Jackie Stewart, with the aim of funding much needed pioneering research into the prevention and cure of dementia.
For further information about the Randox Alzheimer’s Array please email info@randoxbiosciences.com
Growth through medical technology: Randox and Bosch invest heavily in the Vivalytic analysis platform
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New partnership for Vivalytic analysis platform: Bosch and Randox
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Laboratories Ltd. to invest 150 million euros in research, development, and
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distribution
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Strategic growth field: point-of-care molecular diagnostics expected to
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become a future market worth billions
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Growth with fully automated laboratory diagnostics: the two companies aim to
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achieve sales in the nine-figure range by 2030.
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Smartphone-sized laboratory: sepsis IVD grade test based on cutting-edge
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BioMEMS technology is a joint development objective.
With many diseases, every minute counts, and determining whether a patient is presenting the symptoms of a simple cold, the flu, or something as severe as life-threatening meningitis is usually only possible after time-consuming and expensive
laboratory diagnostics. With its Vivalytic analysis platform, Bosch has set itself the goal of making fast and highly precise diagnostics accessible at the point of care – and aims to use molecular diagnostics to become a leading provider in the
market by 2030. To achieve this, Bosch has now agreed on a strategic partnership with Randox Laboratories Ltd., a leading diagnostic and medical technology company. The two companies will invest around 150 million euros in joint research, development, and sales activities for new tests for the Vivalytic analysis platform provided by Bosch Healthcare. One goal is the development of a sepsis IVD1 grade test that will be the first to feature highly innovative and novel BioMEMS technology.
Bosch has defined medical technology as a strategic growth field. Point-of-care molecular diagnostics is expected to become a future market worth billions. And with its Vivalytic analysis platform, Bosch aims to achieve a leading position in this market. “With cutting-edge technology from our own labs and our own production lines, we want to grow long-term together with partners in the field of precision diagnostics,” says Stefan Hartung, chairman of the Bosch board of management. “Here, our medical technology can draw considerable benefit from our diversification, from our expertise, from the groundwork we have done in automation, miniaturization, molecular diagnostics, and from our experience in microchip development and manufacturing,” Hartung adds. “We are investing long-term in an exciting high-tech growth field and continuously developing it together with partners. With technology ‘Invented for life’, we can relieve the burden on medical professionals and help make the diagnose and treatment of disease faster”.
Shared growth: decentralized diagnostics at the point of care
Bosch Healthcare Solutions and Randox are now joining forces in an attempt to accelerate the development and market launch of new tests and to make distribution channels more efficient. The partnership is set to run for more than ten years. With Vivalytic, the two companies aim to achieve sales in the medium nine-figure range by 2030. “Globally, healthcare is moving toward decentralized and personalized diagnostics, that enable rapid interventions and individual treatment plans,” says Marc Meier, managing director of Bosch Healthcare
Solutions GmbH. “With our partner Randox, we want to further expand the test portfolio of our Vivalytic analysis device. Our fully automated molecular diagnostics PCR tests provide clarity directly at the site of sample collection,
shorten waiting times, and take the strain off the healthcare system,” Meier adds. The two partners are a good fit: Bosch can contribute its technology and manufacturing expertise across the fields of molecular diagnostics, microchip
development and manufacturing, and miniaturization. The universal Vivalytic platform for molecular diagnostics was developed in over ten years by Bosch researchers and brought to market maturity by Bosch Healthcare Solutions. Randox has 40 years of experience in the design and development of highly sensitive IVD tests performed on a variety of technologies, including microfluidic platforms. In combination with the company’s extensive market knowledge and global sales and distribution network, this adds up to considerable opportunities for growth. “Randox has always been committed to improving health worldwide and sees the need to invest in research and development initiatives that will support clinical decision making across a variety of disease areas. Diagnostics has always been an indispensable component of healthcare, and the alignment of both science and technology makes for the perfect fit in an area for high potential impact, especially in pressure-driven environments,” says Dr. Peter Fitzgerald, Managing Director of Randox Laboratories Ltd. Bosch Healthcare Solutions and Randox already collaborated during the Covid-19 pandemic. In spring 2020, Bosch launched one of the world’s first fully automated PCR tests for the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Together with Randox, the rapid test for use in doctor’s offices, nursing homes, testing stations, and hospitals was made ready for the Vivalytic analysis device within the space of just a few weeks.
Development goal: sepsis test based on BioMEMS technology
One focus of the development partnership with Randox is the implementation of a highly sensitive multiplex2test for sepsis on the Vivalytic analysis platform.Sepsis, also known as “blood poisoning,” is a potentially life-threatening complication3 that can occur in conjunction with various infectious diseases. A medical emergency that can lead to multiple organ failure, it requires immediate medical treatment. The planned IVD grade sepsis test is to be based for the first time on the highly innovative and novel BioMEMS technology developed by teams from Bosch corporate research in Renningen and Bosch Healthcare Solutions in Waiblingen. “We have set ourselves the ambitious goal
of adding the functions of a high-performance silicon chip based on microsystems technology to our test cartridges for the Vivalytic platform. In doing so, we will combine Bosch’s unique expertise in the areas of MEMS chips, molecular diagnostics, and microfluidics,” Marc Meier says. “Clinical outcomes in sepsis depend on timely diagnosis and appropriate early therapeutic intervention. Current methods of sepsis diagnosis are insufficient and time-consuming. With over 10 years of experience in the field of infectious diseases diagnostics, we aim to develop a state-of-the-art sepsis test using the highly multiplexing BioMEMS technology. Such a test could revolutionize sepsis diagnosis, ultimately leading to improved treatment outcomes and lower mortality rates from this life-threatening condition,” says Dr. Peter Fitzgerald.
Smaller and faster: from microfluidics to nanofluidics – thanks to BioMEMS
The powerful BioMEMS chip adds a further innovative analysis method to the Vivalytic test cartridge, enabling it to test simultaneously and significantly faster for a large number of different pathogens. It is called BioMEMS because it combines microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) with microfluidics for applications in the field of medical technology. In microfluidics, very small amounts of fluid in the microliter range are moved in a very small space. Miniaturization allows qualitative biochemical polymerase chain reactions (PCR) to run in parallel in real-time on a single BioMEMS chip. “Compared to previous PCR reactions, the volumes of liquids are reduced by a factor of 1,000 to the nanoliter range. The analysis of liquids is left to a small microchip,” Marc Meier explains. With the new BioMEMS technology, fully automatic testing up to 250 genetic characteristics4 (e.g. pathogens) in one cartridge is possible in less
than 15 minutes. The test cartridge is a highly complex laboratory the size of a smartphone, so to speak. Another future advantage of BioMEMS will be simpler and faster adaptation of new tests or existing tests on the chip itself. For example, existing tests can easily be expanded to include additional features. “The BioMEMS technology paves the way for us to move into nanofluidics, where each pathogen will be examined in a reaction vessel the thickness of a hair,” Meier says. To achieve this, Bosch wants to create more capacity on a MEMS chip and expand it what are known as “nanocavities”. Thanks to t
hese very small cavities, even more biochemical processes will be able to run in parallel on a
chip. With increasing miniaturization, the technology has potential to be used in oncology as well over the long term. The BioMEMS chips are to be manufactured at the Bosch semiconductor plant in Reutlingen, with bio-integration and cartridge
assembly to be carried out at Bosch Healthcare Solutions in Waiblingen.
Vivalytic platform: easy application at the point of sample collection
The advantages of carrying out PCR tests on the Bosch Vivalytic platform lie not only in speedy a
nalysis, but also in the ease of use: Once the sample has been taken, it is placed in the test cartridge. The cartridge, which contains all the necessary reagents for the respective test, is then inserted into the Vivalytic analyser for automated evaluation. Medical staff require only brief training on how to operate it. This enables fast and targeted diagnostics directly at the point of sample collection – either at the doctor’s office or in the hospital – without the often long and time-consuming detour via a central laboratory. Bosch Healthcare Solutions already distributes various tests for diseases of the upper and lower respiratory tract, such as SARS-CoV-2 – also a pooling variant and as a saliva test – or a test to differentiate between SARS-CoV-2, RSV virus and influenza. There are also tests for pathogens that cause sexually transmitted infections (STI) and MRSA / SA (“hospital germ”). Starting in summer, it is planned to expand the portfolio with tests for whooping cough (Bordetella holmesii, Bordetella parapertus
sis, and Bordetella bronchiseptica), urinary tract infections (UTI), bacterial meningitis, the two most common sexually transmitted diseases (Chlamydia trachomatis; CT and Neisseria gonorrhoeae; (NG), fungal infections (Candida auris), and three tests for diarrheal diseases
(norovirus, Clostridioides difficile, HSP)
Contact persons for press inquiries:
Robert Bosch GmbH
Dörthe Warnk, Phone: +49 711 811-55508
E-mail: doerthe.warnk@bosch.com
Randox Laboratories Ltd.
Martin Conway, Phone: +44 (0) 28 9442 2413
E-mail: martin.conway@randox.com
Randox announce ‘Race Against Dementia’ as partner charity for Randox Grand National Festival 2024.
Race Against Dementia is announced as partner charity for Randox Grand National Festival 2024. The charity was founded by three-times Formula One World Champion, Sir Jackie Stewart, OBE, with the aim of funding much needed pioneering research into the prevention and cure of dementia.
Race Against Dementia is announced as partner charity for Randox Grand National Festival 2024. This will be their second consecutive year as partner charity. Founded by three-times Formula One World Champion, Sir Jackie Stewart OBE, with the aim of funding much needed pioneering research into the prevention and cure of dementia.
Race Against Dementia’s vision is to one day win the race against dementia by accelerating global research towards a breakthrough cure. Together we can beat dementia – faster. Currently more than 55 million people are affected by dementia worldwide. Sadly, unless something changes, 1 in 3 people born today will die with dementia.
Dementia affects different parts of the brain; some people with dementia may have trouble remembering things, while others may have trouble with language or performing tasks they used to do easily. There are many types of dementia. Each one can affect people differently, causing problems with memory, thinking and behaviour. There is unfortunately, no cure currently for this progressive disease.
As pioneers of prevention and 4-year principal partner of the Randox Grand National, Randox is proud to spread awareness of the power of preventative testing which can identify fences to clear in your health early and make you a front runner for a healthier future. As a global diagnostics company, with over 40 years of experience and a focus on preventative healthcare, Randox and Race Against Dementia are natural partners.
Throughout the three-day festival at Aintree, the charity partner will be supported to highlight the impact of the disease and to raise funds for much needed research into its prevention and cure. On Ladies Day (Friday 12th April), Randox’s sponsored race over the Grand National Fences will be titled ‘The Randox Supports Race Against Dementia Topham Chase’, with opportunities to reach out to both the racing public, and through the festival’s media coverage, to the nation.
In the pursuit of a cure for dementia, improved testing and diagnosis will both enhance patient management and greatly accelerate the race for treatment. In the last 12 months, Randox have processed over 5 million tests from health-conscious clients across the UK & Ireland, through our accessible and comprehensive in-clinic and at-home testing services.
Randox provides access to unrivalled insights that allow you to take control of your health, empowering you to make simple lifestyle changes that could help protect future illness. Also offering specific tests across key health areas including sexual health, hormonal health, digestive, and a range of genetic and other health testing both at-home and in-clinic, at one of our health clinics located throughout the UK and now in selected John Lewis stores – providing easy access for millions of people to a new range of preventative health packages designed to help clients take control of their health.
Sir Jackie Stewart OBE, Founder of Race Against Dementia: “The Randox Grand National is truly a highlight in the sporting calendar. We, at Race Against Dementia are very grateful to Randox Laboratories for supporting us once again this year. Someone is diagnoses with dementia every three seconds and together, through raising funds and awareness, we can accelerate progress towards finding both a prevention and a cure for dementia.
Dr. Peter FitzGerald, Managing Director of Randox: “We are once again proud to partner with Race Against Dementia as our nominated charity for the Randox Grand National Festival 2024 – Race Against Dementia is a cause very close to our hearts!
“As a global diagnostics company, with over 40 years of experience and a focus on preventative healthcare, Randox and Race Against Dementia are natural partners.”
For more information please visit: raceagainstdementia.com/what-is-dementia/
The Randox Grand National Trophy (2024) is revealed.
Friday, 29th March
The Randox Grand National Trophy is one of the most iconic and prestigious sporting trophies in the world of horseracing.
From the start of the Randox sponsorship in 2017, Randox CEO Dr. Peter FitzGerald proposed a unique trophy would be designed and produced each year – the winning owner receiving a full-sized trophy, with the winning trainer, jockey and groom all receiving a miniature version.
Each trophy is uniquely Randox and has a story to tell. The design on the trophy has evolved over the years. Innovation is a characteristic that Randox takes great pride in. Randox is dedicated to improving health using innovative diagnostic technologies. This year’s design was the innovative work of talented De Montfort University placement student, Ritik Tailor.
On his design, Ritik says, “I am very fortunate to be given the opportunity to design the Randox Grand National Trophy. Being entrusted with such an important design at the start of my placement is quite rewarding. With the support of the team, I was able to create a trophy that feels like a major accomplishment for me as an intern. It’s also an incredible opportunity as the trophy is being presented to the winning jockey at the Randox Grand National. It is a great feeling that something I have created will be woven into the history of such a prestigious sporting event.”
This year’s trophy has two key elements -the design showcases the elegance of a horse mid-jump with nods to Randox’s expertise in biochemistry. A double helix, representing DNA, rises from the base of the trophy and is partially encased by two silver rods that act as its handles.
The horse, rising from a circular blood drop – is one of the most iconic symbols of the event, was something Ritik considered an essential component to incorporate into the design. “I wanted to capture the racehorse in a way that would make it stand out as the focal point of the trophy.” adds Ritik, “After brainstorming a couple of sketched, I decided on a dynamic and lifelike horse sculpture.”
But the life-like horse sculpture is not the only element that makes the trophy unique.
The Randox iconic logo is incorporated into the base in a subtle, yet impactful way – perfectly complimenting the horse. To tie everything together the DNA Helix design is another key feature.
“I wanted to incorporate Randox’s expertise in the field of biochemistry and molecular diagnostics into the design. This intricate design is etched into the metal base of the horse, symbolizing Randox’s icon.”
Graphic Design Team Lead, Elizabeth Heaney adds, “Ritik has truly made his mark within our design team during his placement. His trophy design being chosen over others from multiple designers is a testament to his creativity and talent. We couldn’t be prouder of this years Randox Grand National trophy – and I hope Ritik feels the same sense of accomplishment for his involvement in its creation.
“It’s amazing to think that Ritik accomplished this feat within just four weeks of joining Randox, demonstrating his quick adaption to the company and his ability to create a design that embodies Randox’s essence flawlessly!”
The Randox Grand National trophies over the years have been brought to life by silversmith, Cara Murphy who adds, “This is the fifth year I have had the honour of making the Randox Grand National trophy. It is always exciting to see the different designs and how they each celebrate the event.”
Overall, the Randox Grand National Trophy is beautiful and intricate work of art that embodies the company’s commitment to innovation, accuracy, and precision in the field of diagnostic testing and opportunity.
Randox Health announce partnership with Simplyhealth
Simplyhealth is now offering customers of its Health Plan discounted access to 10 Randox Health home testing kits able to detect common lifestyle related conditions including high cholesterol, vitamin deficiencies or diabetes.
24.4% of the UK population were at risk of at least one underlying health condition in 2019*. Reports from Randox Health home test kits will enable members to act early by suggesting simple lifestyle changes or directing them to a GP for further advice and guidance.
Simplyhealth Health Plan members can purchase discounted tests via the SimplyPlan app or the online Simplyhealth portal, under the SimplyRewards section. Members can choose from 10 Randox Health home test kits that measure up to twenty-four biomarkers related to heart, kidney, liver, iron, diabetes, thyroid, and nutritional health, providing fast, accurate, and convenient insights into their health.
The ten discounted at home test kits are: Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Heart Health, Thyroid Health, General Health, Male Hormones, Female Hormones, STI, Anti-mullerian hormone (AMH), and Prostate-specific Antigen (PSA). Full details of each test can be found on the Simplyhealth and Randox websites.
David Ferguson, Chief Operations Officer for Randox Health said: “We are pleased to announce this partnership with Simplyhealth, providing their members with discounted Randox Health home testing kits.
“Our range of specialised health packages enable you to take control of your health, using our innovative diagnostic technologies which can give a comprehensive overview of an individual’s health, helping to detect the earliest signs of illness. Together we can work towards preventative healthcare.”
Claudia Nicholls, Chief Customer Officer for Simplyhealth said “A better understanding of the body can empower people to make diet and lifestyle changes that could help prevent future illness. We are passionate about making healthcare more accessible to all and our partnership with Randox Health is just one of the ways we are helping people to take more control of their health and prevent them from becoming ill.
Simplyhealth’s Health Plan for businesses can be tailored to meet the specific needs of any workforce and is available for under £5 per employee, per month, making it more accessible and easier to offer the entire workforce cover. Individuals can access the service as part of Simplyhealth’s 1-2-3 Health Plan from just £20 a month.
New UK-developed test can help predict who will develop type 1 diabetes and unlock treatment
- New drugs are emerging for type 1 diabetes (T1D), but they can only be given before a person has a clinical diagnosis
- Now countries across the world are looking at introducing the first global screening programmes to identify who is at high risk of developing the disease, to prescribe before it is too late
- A new biochip by Randox, developed with the University of Exeter, is the first in the world to use genetics to quickly identify who is at high risk of developing T1D, filtering who should go forward for further testing and accelerating access to treatment where needed.
A new test that uses genetics to help predict who is at high risk of developing type 1 diabetes is now publicly available for the first time, following research that aims to help people across the globe access new drugs that can modify the disease.
The test could help develop new screening programmes for type 1 diabetes, as new drugs emerge which must be prescribed at early stages to be effective. The new test will also help determine type 1 from type 2 diabetes, further improving clinical decision making and treatment.
The test, developed by UK diagnostics company Randox using research from the University of Exeter, could help introduce public health screening in the UK and across the world, supporting those with a high genetic risk of developing type 1 diabetes. Now, the test has received UK regulatory approval – the first such approval issued globally. This means it will be available to consumers in the UK, through Randox Health clinics, and can be ordered online for sample collection at home and returned to Randox’s laboratories for testing.
Type 1 diabetes has a significant inherited risk. The new test is conducted on a Randox biochip which can simultaneously identify up to 10 genetic variants linked to risk for type 1 diabetes. An algorithm is then applied to assess the risk associated with the identified variants for each individual, to calculate a genetic risk score. Previous trials have shown that genetic risk scores are particularly effective in predicting risk for type 1 diabetes. This score will help identify people who don’t have diabetes but are at high risk of developing the disease in the future and can be referred for autoantibody testing to give a definitive diagnosis. The Randox biochip can also be used after diagnosis, to help identify what type of diabetes a person has, which is crucial to ensuring they get the best possible treatment and care.
Identifying those at high risk is particularly topical, as new drugs emerge that can reduce the impact of type 1 diabetes – and they can only be given at the earliest stages, before a clinical diagnosis is given. In November 2022, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of teplizumab – the first disease-modifying treatment for type 1 diabetes. It can only be prescribed pre diagnosis, yet there is currently no screening programme anywhere in the world to identify early pre-clinical type 1 diabetes. The drug is not yet approved for use in the UK, however, health services globally are now considering how best to introduce public health screening programmes. Diabetes clinician Professor Richard Oram, of the University of Exeter, developed the genetic risk score based on a decade of research, and has worked with Randox on developing the new biochip. He said: “The world is waking up to the value of screening programmes for type 1 diabetes because of new drugs which must be given at the earliest stages of disease. Our new biochip is a pioneering example of how understanding a person’s background genetic risk can help identify those at highest risk, ensuring they have further antibody screening so we can efficiently identify type 1 diabetes early enough for treatment to be effective. The Randox biochip could aid in speeding up decisions
around who should be monitored and tested further, making public health screening cost effective and improving lives by increasing access to treatment.”
Type 1 diabetes affects more than eight million people worldwide, and numbers are projected to rise significantly. The disease causes the body’s own immune system to attack the beta cells which regulate blood sugar. Although the disease is primarily caused by genetics, only around one in ten people with type 1 diabetes have a family member affected, making the other nine in ten difficult to identify. Currently, they are often referred for autoantibody tests when symptoms start to show – but that can be too late to mean they are eligible for treatment.
The new fingernail-sized biochip works by applying DNA extracted from a patient’s blood sample to the biochip surface, upon which copies of the high-risk type 1 diabetes genetic variants are fixed. If a match occurs, the patient’s DNA will bind to the fixed risk variants and emit light. The pattern of positive genetic variants indicates genetic risk and an algorithm is then applied, factoring the significance of each gene variant. The higher the genetic score, the greater the risk that the individual will develop the disease. Those at high risk can then be monitored and put forward for autoantibody screening, while those at low risk need not be screened, which saves money.
Dr Lucy Chambers, Head of Research Communications at Diabetes UK, said: “We’re delighted to see that research supported by Diabetes UK has informed the development of an innovative new tool to find people at high risk of type 1 diabetes. New treatments to prevent or delay type 1 are on the horizon, and their success hinges on establishing effective screening methods to pinpoint those at higher risk. We are continuing to fund research into type 1 screening and are pleased to see new innovations that have the potential to improve lives.”
Hilary Nathan, Director of Policy and Communications at JDRF UK: “For too long, type 1 diabetes has lain silent and undetected to subsequently devastate lives and cause chaos from the first days of diagnosis. This new biochip from Randox and the University of Exeter is exciting, as the test could provide a new way to predict who is at risk from developing type 1. This knowledge then unlocks the opportunity to provide education and intervene at the earliest stages, enabling us to reduce the number of people being diagnosed with diabetic ketoacidosis, which can have traumatic and potentially fatal consequences. We are also on the cusp of a wave of transformative treatments, which can delay the onset of type 1, offering people invaluable years of life free from its burdens.”
Dr Peter FitzGerald MD of Randox said: “We’re delighted to have worked with the University of Exeter on this project to provide a screening tool to assess the genetic risk of type 1 diabetes which, aligned with autoantibody testing, can greatly improve diagnosis, patient care and access to therapeutics. As a result of our regulatory UKCA approval we will, as a world first, be providing this test through our Randox Health clinics, including within certain John Lewis stores, to private individuals in the UK from7th March. We are also releasing the test via a home-based sample self-collection kit. This test is a game-changer in the diagnosis and treatment of type 1 diabetes and we look forward to deploying the test to support public and private healthcare providers globally.”
The benefits of understanding your health status
Randox Health believe in takin a proactive approach to health – making it their mission to deliver accurate and informative preventative health directly to consumers, all the while helping to relieve some of the strain felt by the health service.
More than 4.3 million people in the UK now live with diabetes. Additionally 850,000 people could be living with diabetes who are yet to be diagnoses. (Diabetes UK)
The Office for National Statistics also estimated that one in nine adults – equating to more than five million people – have non-diabetic hyperglycemia, or ‘pre-diabetes’. Making it one of the most common conditions that people live with – most people with diabetes, with the right medication and management, can live completely unencumbered lives and new technologies are making it even simpler. However, if the right care is not provided, diabetes can increase your risk of several serious complications.
Journalist, Matt Rudd, with a group of colleagues from The Times, UK, recently undertook the Randox Health Vital test – which allows you to understand your health baseline by reviewing vital health areas that could increase your risk of heart attack, stroke, and Type 2 diabetes.
Matt described the test as ‘making sense’, “…even though most cases (of type 2 diabetes) are linked to poor diet and obesity those people in the undiagnosed category are likely to be slimmer, younger and in good general health.”
Understanding your health data is vital in helping you to not only feel your best but can also help to prevent illness and reduce your risk of common conditions. The Randox Health Vital health check provides insight into four essential health areas and provides key data empowering you to take control of your health:
- Personal measurements including blood pressure and body composition are measured, If left unmanaged, high blood pressure can increase your risk of heart attack or stroke.
- Heart Health – find out if your levels of both good cholesterol (HDL cholesterol, triglycerides and total cholesterol/ HDL Ratio – higher than normal levels of LDL cholesterol may make you more likely to have heart problems or stroke.)
- Diabetes Health – HbA1c levels are measured to provide an overall picture of average blood sugar levels over a period of weeks/ months. HbA1c levels can be used to indicate prediabetes or diabetes.
- Full blood count.
The easy-to-interpret report from this Health test will provide a breakdown of results, what they mean and next steps.
By finding out if you are at increased risk of conditions such as those that the Vital package tests for, you can choose to make lifestyle changes to help improve your risk of these potentially devastating conditions.
Medical director for Randox Health, Dr. Gary Smyth provided the following comments for the Times article.
“I believe we should be screening more widely. As the adage goes, prevention is better than a cure. We’re not talking about eradicating type 2 diabetes, but we know it’s am entirely preventable disease with the correct lifestyle choices. It’s depression that there isn’t a system to test more people at a younger age.”
To read the full Times article: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/35d441ef-49fa-4b1a-978b-13792123cde9?shareToken=6f1dbe1f2bf3e591663f0c240d92c9ae
