Hull set to become regional hub for advanced diagnostic molecular imaging

Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (HUTH) and Novartis have entered into a collaborative partnership to support diagnostic molecular imaging services and the newly launched Molecular Imaging Research Centre (MIRC) in Hull.

The partnership will see Novartis fund a physicist post for 27 months to support the introduction of a Gallium radiopharmaceutical service and Gallium-Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging capability at Castle Hill Hospital. After this period, funding will be taken on by HUTH, supported by Daisy Appeal, which has developed and will operate the MIRC facilities.

Gallium-68 labelled radio-diagnostic agents are produced using a Gallium generator. Because the isotope has a short half-life of just 68 minutes, transport to other sites is limited, making on-site production essential. With the recent acquisition of a Gallium generator, MIRC will soon begin producing these agents for clinical use in Hull.

Gallium-PET imaging is already widely used in the management of neuro-endocrine tumours and prostate cancer, while clinical trials across the world are exploring its use in other cancers to support patient selection and monitor response to new therapies.

Dr Saleem Azeem, Clinical Director, Molecular Imaging Research Centre

“The introduction of Gallium-PET services in Hull is expected to help address regional inequalities in access to advanced diagnostic imaging. Patients from centres without these facilities will be able to access molecular imaging at Hull, supporting clinical trial participation, therapy readiness and more equitable access to specialist scanning closer to home.”

Novartis is a global pharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative medicines for serious diseases and improving patient care.