Val-Raman
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Validation of MX-Raman in retrospectively collected biofluid samples
IRAS ID
365318
Contact name
Sumeet Mahajan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Southampton
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Dementia is one of the greatest health challenges of our time, affecting memory, thinking, and daily life. At present, diagnosis can be slow and uncertain. Existing tests, such as brain scans or spinal fluid analysis, are either expensive, invasive, or not widely available. This means that many people face delays in getting a clear diagnosis, which can affect treatment, care planning, and access to research studies.
Our research aims to develop a simpler, more accessible test for dementia using a technique called Raman spectroscopy. This is a type of laser‑based light measurement that can detect tiny chemical changes in blood. Every sample produces a unique “fingerprint” of molecules, which can then be analysed using computer models. Early work by our team has shown that this approach can distinguish between people with Alzheimer’s disease and those without dementia, using spinal fluid. We now want to test whether the same method works reliably in blood, which is much easier to collect.
To do this, we will use blood samples that have already been collected in previous ethically approved studies of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, and healthy ageing. No new participants will be recruited, and no new samples will be taken. All samples are stored securely in a licensed biobank, and only anonymised information (such as age, sex, diagnosis, and results of other tests) will be linked to the blood measurements.
By applying Raman spectroscopy to these samples, we hope to identify consistent patterns that can separate different types of dementia from healthy ageing. If successful, this research could pave the way for a quick, low‑cost blood test that supports earlier and more accurate diagnosis, benefiting patients, families, and healthcare services.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/NW/0353
Date of REC Opinion
19 Dec 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion