As a result of the last round of funding, Leicester doctors and scientists developed a new drug which could dramatically lessen the severity of asthma.
Advertisement
The cash will help drive pioneering research into new tests and treatments in the areas of musculoskeletal disease, hearing health, respiratory disease and dermatology and three cancer “themes” – prevention, radiotherapy and precision medicine. “It confirms us as a world-leading centre for biomedical research”.
Of the successful applicants, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is to get £114.3 million to support a wide range of projects, including research into antimicrobial resistance, dementia, women’s health and paediatrics.
The grant was awarded by the National Institute for Health Research following a joint bid from Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Trust, in partnership with The University of Manchester, The Christie NHS Trust, Salford Royal NHS Trust, University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Trust.
“By 2021, we aim to involve 50,000 patients in new treatment studies, trialling new treatments, and introducing new digital interventions into routine NHS use”.
OXFORD’S “proud tradition” of being at the heart of medical breakthroughs is set to continue as the city receives a £126m investment. It is estimated that for every £1 the Department of Health invests, hospitals/universities will generate £6 – from public funders of research, charities and industry partners – a boost for the economy.
Mr Hunt said: “The UK has so often led the world in health research – from the invention of the smallpox vaccine to the discovery of penicillin and the development of DNA sequencing.
Working together, we will marry population studies, laboratory science and patient-based research to improve practice and design ground-breaking treatments and care for all”.
“The future of NHS care depends on the science we do now”.
Bosses say it was only made possible through the collaboration of clinical and research experts from across health and academia – and is an early triumph for Greater Manchester’s new approach. The NIHR Biomedical Research Unit in Nutrition, Diet and Lifestyle undertakes patient-focused early phase experimental clinical research in human nutrition, diet and lifestyle.
Advertisement
Professor Matthew Hotopf, director of the NIHR Maudsley BRC, said: “We are delighted that the Department of Health is showing its commitment to improving the mental health of the nation through this substantial investment in our Biomedical Research Centre. I am very grateful to the leadership and staff in our existing Biomedical Research Units for all their hard work in gaining this well-deserved recognition”.
