Project SANDBOX
Research type
Research Study
Full title
SANDBOX: Scalable Assessment of Neurodegenerative Diagnosis via Biomarkers and Online Examination
IRAS ID
347200
Contact name
Ravi Solanki
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
CFDX, LTD
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
This study will pilot a scalable triage pathway integrating blood-based biomarkers (e.g., phosphorylated tau-217, epigenetic markers), digital cognitive testing, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven risk assessment into the diagnostic process for patients referred to Secondary Memory Clinics. By introducing a triage system between primary care and Memory Clinics, the study aims to improve diagnostic accuracy, reduce delays, and expand clinic capacity. It will assess the feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and patient/clinician acceptance of collecting blood samples at Memory Clinics, conducting remote cognitive assessments, analysing biomarkers, and using AI to explore links between proteomic and epigenetic data and dementia progression.
The pathway will provide Memory Clinics with diagnostic information to guide imaging or treatment decisions and streamline safeguarding processes. Additionally, the study will evaluate the psychological and clinical impact of disclosing Apolipoprotein E (APOE)carrier-ship, with the goal of creating a safe and ethical procedure for sharing genetic risk information.
By improving diagnostic efficiency, the triage pathway aims to enable earlier and more accurate diagnosis, facilitating better use of emerging diagnostic and therapeutic tools. The pilot will determine the feasibility of scaling this approach to a larger, more diverse patient population across multiple regions.
REC name
Wales REC 4
REC reference
25/WA/0033
Date of REC Opinion
26 Mar 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion