Biotech breakthrough: pioneering transformation in clinical laboratory practices

Topic Brief:

The talk will delve into the latest advancements in biotechnology that are revolutionizing clinical laboratory practices. It will explore how these breakthroughs are reshaping diagnostics, treatments, and overall patient care. Topics may include innovative technologies such as next-generation sequencing, liquid biopsy, CRISPR-based diagnostics, and advancements in data analytics. Additionally, the talk will highlight the implications of these biotech breakthroughs for healthcare professionals and patients alike.

Topic Outlines:

  1. Understand the latest biotechnological innovations transforming clinical laboratory practices.
  2. Explore the applications of biotech breakthroughs in diagnostics, disease monitoring, and treatment selection.
  3. Discuss the potential impact of these advancements on improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery.
  4. Gain insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating biotech breakthroughs into routine clinical laboratory workflows.
  5. Identify strategies for leveraging biotech advancements to enhance laboratory efficiency, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness.
  6. Learn about emerging trends and future directions in biotechnology and their implications for clinical laboratory medicine.

Empowering the next generation: investing in education and training for lab professionals

Topic Brief:

This talk will emphasize the critical importance of investing in education and training for laboratory professionals to ensure the readiness of the next generation. It will explore various aspects of education and training programs tailored to meet the evolving demands of clinical laboratory practice. Topics may include curriculum development, hands-on training, continuing education opportunities, mentorship programs, and the integration of emerging technologies into educational frameworks. Additionally, the talk will discuss strategies for fostering a culture of lifelong learning and professional development within the laboratory community.

Topic Outlines:

  1. Understand the significance of investing in education and training for laboratory professionals in ensuring high-quality patient care.
  2. Explore the key components of effective education and training programs for laboratory personnel, including curriculum design and delivery methods.
  3. Identify innovative approaches to hands-on training and skill development for laboratory technicians and scientists.
  4. Discuss the role of continuing education and certification programs in keeping laboratory professionals abreast of advancements in technology and best practices.
  5. Learn about the importance of mentorship and career development initiatives in nurturing the next generation of laboratory leaders.
  6. Explore strategies for promoting a culture of lifelong learning and professional growth within the laboratory community.
  7. Gain insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with investing in education and training for lab professionals and identify potential solutions.
  8. Discuss the implications of investing in education and training for laboratory professionals on improving overall laboratory performance, efficiency, and outcomes.

 

Manufacturing aspects of CAR T cells

Topic Brief:

The presentation will focus on CAR T cell therapy with a comprehensive overview of CARs, and the international and national regulators of the field of CAR T cell therapy. Also, included is the status of CAR T cell therapy in Saudi Arabia, and the challenges in CAR T cell manufacturing. It will also cover future direction in the field of CAR T cell therapy

Topic Outlines:

Provide an overview of the science behind CAR T cells, and what are the different generations of CARs.

Understand CAR T cell manufacturing in a closed system, and what is needed to during this process.

Highlight the current challenges that faces CAR T cell manufacturing including the cost and supply chain.

Learn about the future directions in the field of CAR T cell therapy.

Cellular therapy laboratories: building national capabilities

Topic Brief:

 

Topic Outlines:

Provide a comprehensive introduction to cellular therapy, outlining its principles, applications, and significance in modern medicine.

Explore the essential infrastructure and technological components needed to establish and maintain effective cellular therapy laboratories.

Highlight the importance of developing and strengthening cellular therapy laboratories.

Discuss how these laboratories play a crucial role in enabling the development and delivery of cutting-edge cellular therapies, such as CAR-T cell therapy, stem cell transplantation, and regenerative medicine.

Explore the key elements required for building national capabilities in cellular therapy.

Identify and discuss the essential components necessary for establishing and enhancing cellular therapy capabilities at a national level. This may include infrastructure, equipment, skilled workforce, regulatory frameworks, quality control measures, accreditation standards, and collaboration networks among research -institutions, hospitals, and industry stakeholders.

Emphasize the significance of collaboration among research institutions, healthcare facilities, and industry partners.

Journey of excellence towards national and international accreditation in Cellular Therapy

Topic Brief:

 I am honored to be sharing and presenting KFSH&RC’s immaculate journey which included overcoming tough obstacles and achieving JACIE accreditation.

The Joint Accreditation Committee ISCT-Europe & EBMT (JACIE) is Europe’s only official accreditation body in the field of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and cellular therapy.

JACIE’s primary aim is to promote high quality patient care and laboratory performance in collection, processing, and transplantation centers through an internationally recognized system of accreditation.

Furthermore, the impact of the national and internation standards on the organization hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and cellular therapy program and patient outcome has been a continuous increase in success.

Topic Outlines:

     Why Quality in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) ?

     Hematopoietic Stem Cell Program

     JACIE & CBAHI Accreditation Processes and Milestone

     Impact of Accreditation in Clinical Practice and outcome

     KFSH& RC -Jeddah HSCT Team Journey to excellence to achieve JACIE accreditation.

     Trends in Accreditation

     Challenges and Barriers for the Accreditation

     Take Home Message

Beyond the dry blood spot in Newborn screening

Topic Brief:

 Beyond the dry blood spot in newborn screening

Newborn screening tests enable pre-symptomatic detection of infants with severe or life-threatening conditions.  Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for affected infants. In clinical laboratories, dried blood spot is mainly used for neonatal screening of inborn errors of metabolism. Those with an abnormal result can be referred for further diagnostic testing and follow-up with the appropriate specialist to treat and manage

Topic Outlines:

This workshop will provide participants with the following:

1-    Highlight the impacts of dry blood spot quality on newborn screening tests

2-    Gain insight into the biochemical testing methods used in newborn screening

3-    Disscus how to interpret/ report results of dry blood spot

4-    Overview of the newborn blood spot screening program in Saudi Arabia

 Point of care: Workshop (part a): connectivity Workshop (part b): IQCP

Topic Brief:

Point-of-care testing is a laboratory test that enables healthcare providers to make rapid clinical decisions.

The accessibility and ease of performing it often give a false sensation that the reliability of the test is granted.

There is vital information and knowledge to obtain when choosing POCT and overseeing the program.

Topic Outlines:

  • Understanding POCT’s different solutions
  • Understanding the related possibility of adverse results when misusing POCT.
  • Suitability of POCT solutions for specific populations.
  • Choosing the right method/instrument
  • Creating quality checks
  • Maintaining the POCT program
  • Collaborations between lab and other healthcare providers for reliable results.

Heart failure among Diabetics: the Role of clinical laboratory in screening , diagnosis and in risk prediction

Topic Brief:

Heart Failure among Diabetics: The role of the Clinical Laboratory in Screening, Diagnosis, and in Risk Prediction”

It is becoming increasingly recognized that diabetics are at risk of developing heart failure and that up to 40% of patients will exhibit some degree of heart failure. Several biomarkers of heart failure are available, and the clinical laboratory plays important role in the diagnosis, screening, and in risk prediction. This is an are of significant and growing interest given the ensuing healthcare burden. New and combination of conventional biomarkers are key to early diagnosis, monitoring of therapy and in risk prediction.

Topic Outlines:

Objectives: The presentation will;

a) Highlight the incidence of heart failure among diabetics.

b) Discuss available and future biomarkers of heart failure.

c) Describe the role of the clinical laboratory at the clinical interface.

Challenges and solutions for reliable workplace drug testing in Saudi Arabia

Topic Brief:

Throughout the history of drug abuse analysis, no doubt, it is a necessary means of saving human lives. The side effects of illicit drug use have influenced public safety; crime rates, for example, have increased due to the use of these drugs. Therefore, many companies and industries have conducted workplace drug testing (WDT) ‘as a tool to screen job applicants’, also, ‘rising public concern on the harmful effects of drug abuse causes a sharp increase in the use of WDT’. Conversely, the use of adulteration products has increased severely as a result of the growing demand in the public and private sectors for ‘a drug-free work environment’. Adulterations have threatened the reliability of drug testing. The accuracy of drug tests is often questioned because these chemicals can manipulate urine samples and cause false negative results in WDT. This workshop will examine different points of view that have resulted from this. Some of the responses that have been put forward will then be evaluated, and it will be suggested that the argument in favour of suitable detection methods to avoid false negative results is a persuasive one. Saudi Arabia is one of the leading countries in the world that WDT is mandatory for new employees. In military personal regular WDT is conducted.  

Topic Outlines:

1)    In this lecture, the attendees will be able to know the WDT in Saudi Arabia.

  • Current guidelines
  • Drugs most detected
  • Adulteration of WDT
  • Possible solutions
  • Proposed matrices for WDT
  • Challenges & future

2)    The lecture will discuss the most common challenges facing forensic toxicologists in Saudi Arabia.

Strategies To Improve Test Utilization In Clinical Chemistry Laboratory By Using Innovative Technology

Topic Brief:

When the clinical decision is made to define the patients that do and do not need a test, interventional strategies are available to both clinician and laboratorian to help guide appropriate utilization in general diagnostic laboratories and clinical chemistry in particular. Experience has shown that some AI strategies are so effective when to improve health care and to reduce waste of resources. 

Topic Outlines:

  • To discuss available types of strategies to improve test utilization
  • To demonstrate test utilization rules & suitable interventions
  • To show how AI strategies can be applied

Advances in Molecular Oncology

Topic Brief:

Presentation: Advances in Molecular Oncology

The landscape of oncology is undergoing a paradigm shift, driven by the explosive growth of molecular understanding. We are witnessing the dawn of targeted therapies, precision medicine, and liquid biopsy-guided interventions. We’ve moved beyond single gene mutations, embracing multi-omics approaches to identify intricate networks of targets. Targeted therapies are showing promise, but resistance looms. Liquid biopsies offer real-time monitoring and guide personalized treatment adjustments. Despite some challenges, the rapid pace of innovation paints a hopeful picture for a future where cancer is a manageable condition, not a death sentence.

Topic Outlines:

  1. Understand the role and impact of high-throughput molecular technologies in oncology.
  2. Identify the different types of ‘omics’ technologies and their applications in cancer research.
  3. Recognize the importance of cancer biomarkers in the early detection, diagnosis, and management of cancer.
  4. Envision the future landscape of oncology in light of ongoing molecular advancements and research directions.

Genetic Technologies in Health and Disease: Past, Present and Future

Topic Brief:

He will present Genetic/Genomic Technologies in Health and Disease: Past, Present and Future.

The topic highlights the technological advances in the field of genetics and genomics, that is so vital in precision medicine, personalized medicine, gene targeted therapies and other genetics-based treatment modalities. Without the advent of genomics technologies, screening programs based on genetic information would not have been possible. Genomics technologies are present and the future of precision medicine

Topic Outlines:

Some basics in genetics and genomics

Various technologies in genetics and genomics

Use of genomics technologies in health and disease

How to improve genomics research in Saudi Arabia?

Extra pulmonary TB: what we don’t know

Topic Brief:

The incidence of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) in high-income countries has increased over the last two decades. The acid-fast bacillus (AFB) smear test is easy to perform and cost-effective with a quick turnaround time but the test has low sensitivity. Culture remains the gold standard for detecting TB; however, it has low sensitivity and slow bacterial growth patterns, as it may take up to 6 to 8 weeks to grow. Hence, a rapid detection tool is crucial for the early initiation of treatment and ensuring an improved therapeutic outcome. The Xpert Ultra system was developed as a nucleic acid amplification technique to accelerate the detection of MTB in paucibacillary clinical samples and endorsed by the World Health Organization. From March 2020 to August 2021, Xpert Ultra was evaluated for its sensitivity and specificity against EPTB and compared with those of the routinely used Xpert, culture, and AFB tests in 845 clinical samples in Saudi Arabia. The results indicate the overall sensitivity and specificity of Xpert Ultra to be 91% and 95%, respectively, compared with the Xpert (82% and 99%, respectively) and AFB smear (18% and 100%, respectively) tests. The results also indicated that despite the low microbial loads that were categorized as trace, very low, or low on Xpert Ultra, yet, complete detection was achieved with some sample types (i.e., 100% detection). Consequently, Xpert Ultra has great potential to replace conventional diagnostic approaches as a standard detection method for EPTB.

Topic Outlines:

Understanding the Diagnostic Accuracy of Xpert Ultra: Learners will aim to understand the effectiveness of the Xpert Ultra test in identifying EPTB cases. This will include evaluating its sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value compared to traditional diagnostic methods.

Knowledge of EPTB: The study may provide an opportunity to learn about the various types of EPTB, which affects areas of the body other than the lungs, such as the lymph nodes, abdomen, genitourinary tract, skin, joints and bones, or meninges.

Application of Diagnostic Tools in a Specific Context: Learners will explore how the Xpert Ultra test is used in the context of Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system, including challenges and benefits associated with its implementation.

Retrospective Analysis Skills: The study may also aim to develop learners’ skills in conducting and interpreting retrospective analyses, which involve looking back at existing data to draw conclusions about the diagnostic tool’s performance.

Public Health Implications: Understanding how improvements in diagnostic techniques can affect public health outcomes, especially in the context of infectious diseases like tuberculosis, which remains a significant health concern in many parts of the world.

Clinical Decision-Making: The objective may include improving clinical decision-making by demonstrating how a new diagnostic tool can affect treatment plans, patient management, and overall healthcare delivery for EPTB.

Clinical Interpretation for Exome Sequencing Data

Topic Brief:

Human genetic variations, interpretation, and reporting are critical for accurate diagnosis, management, and intervention of genetic diseases. This talk will cover the different types of molecular genetic variations that can be benign, of uncertain significance, or pathogenic and what are the genetic, AI, and bioinformatic tools that we can leverage to reach an accurate interpretation and reporting according to the interpretation guidelines of the American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG).

Topic Outlines:

  • The audience will learn about the different types of genetic variations in clinical molecular genetics.
  • The audience will learn about the different types of variants classifications in clinical molecular genetics.
  • The audience will learn about the different tools to classify variants in clinical molecular genetics.
  • The audience will learn about genetic results reporting in clinical molecular genetics.

Essentials of Histocompatibility testing for organ Transplantation

Topic Brief:

Histocompatibility testing is essential for successful organ transplantation. It involves assessing the compatibility between the donor’s and recipient’s tissues to minimize the risk of rejection. The Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) system plays a central role, as it determines the immune response to foreign tissues. Various testing methods, including serological and molecular techniques, are utilized to match HLA antigens between donors and recipients. These tests help identify compatible donors and optimize transplant outcomes by reducing the risk of rejection. Understanding histocompatibility testing is crucial for healthcare professionals involved in organ transplantation to ensure patient safety and improve the chances of long-term graft survival

Topic Outlines:

Understanding Histocompatibility for organ transplantation

Learning the Types of Histocompatibility Testing

Pre-transplant evaluation and the impact on transplant outcome

Pitfallas in the interpretation of clinical Immunology tests

Topic Brief:

The interpretation of immunologic  laboratory tests can be challenging due to several factors. As an example, autoantibody positivity in observed in many healthy individuals, and misdiagnosis can occur if proper clinical correlation and technical aspects of the test are not taken into account. Similar precautions must be taken for interpreting infectious disease test.

This lecture will touch on the clinical an laboratory aspects that should be considered and that lead to confusion in clinical practice.

Topic Outlines:

  1. Understanding the technical aspects that influence the result of a test.
  2. Highlighting the importance of the patient’s clinical status when issuing a final report.
  3. Practical tips for managing immunologic testing.

how to diagnose SLE in the laboratory ?

Topic Brief:

Diagnoses of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in an immunology laboratory
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), commonly referred to as lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs and systems in the body. It is characterized by a complex and variable set of symptoms. SLE occurs when the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, leading to inflammation and tissue damage.
SLE is a complex and challenging autoimmune disease that requires a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, treatment, and management.
Diagnosing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in an immunology laboratory involves several key tests and diagnostic criteria involves tests for ANA, anti-dsDNA antibodies, anti-Sm antibodies, complement levels, anti-phospholipid antibodies. Results are interpreted alongside clinical criteria and patient symptoms.
The importance of accurate SLE diagnosis lies in its impact on treatment, disease management, prognosis, monitoring, research, and patient education.

Topic Outlines:

The learning objectives aim to equip learners with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to effectively diagnose SLE in an immunology laboratory setting, integrating clinical and laboratory aspects of the diagnostic process.

Primary Immunodeficiency (PID), a laboratory perspective

Topic Brief:

My presentation will be overviews of Primary immunodeficiency (PID) with current classification of PID and focusing on lab tools used for PID diagnosis. In addition, to discuss and present some cases of PID.

Topic Outlines:

An introduction to the PIDs. , Current update of the PIDs classification. ,  Laboratory methods used to detect the presence of these disorders. , Examples cases of PIDs.

From theory to practice Digital Pathology Adoption in Real-Life Settings

Topic Brief:

This talk will provide an overview of digital pathology adoption in contemporary anatomic pathology laboratories based on the original survey, including the setup of key components of the digital pathology ecosystem such as WSI scanners, workstations, storage, monitors, and other relevant technologies. The talk will compare laboratories with a fully digital transition to those with a lower level of digital penetration, assessing differences in implementation strategies, workflow efficiencies, and outcomes related to digital pathology adoption. Furthermore, it will explore the perspectives of laboratories without access to digital pathology, including their perceptions of the technology, expectations, barriers to adoption, and potential facilitators.

Topic Outlines:

Analyze the prevalence of digital pathology adoption among 140 anatomical pathology laboratories across 2 continents, considering differences in implementation strategies and institutional experiences.

Evaluate the impact of digital pathology workflows on key performance indicators such as turnaround time, specimen traceability, quality control, and overall satisfaction within anatomical pathology laboratories.

Analyze a setup of all the key components of the digital pathology ecosystem, including WSI scanners, workstations, storage, monitors, and other relevant technologies.

Compare laboratories with a fully digital transition to those with a lower level of digital penetration, analyzing differences in implementation strategies, workflow efficiencies, and outcomes related to digital pathology adoption.

Explore the perspectives of laboratories without access to digital pathology, including their perceptions of the technology, expectations, barriers to adoption, and potential facilitators.

Introduction to Digital Pathology

Topic Brief:

This talk will provide an overview of digital pathology, a rapidly evolving field that is transforming traditional histopathology practices. Digital pathology involves the digitization of histological slides and the use of computer-based imaging technologies for the interpretation and analysis of tissue specimens. The presentation will cover the fundamentals of digital pathology systems, image acquisition, storage, and analysis, as well as its applications in clinical diagnostics, research, and education. Additionally, the talk will discuss the benefits, challenges, and future directions of digital pathology adoption in healthcare settings.

Topic Outlines:

  1. Understand the basic principles and components of digital pathology systems, including slide scanning, image analysis, and data management.
  2. Learn about the advantages of digital pathology over conventional microscopy-based approaches, such as enhanced workflow efficiency, remote access to slides, and improved collaboration among pathologists.
  3. Explore the various applications of digital pathology in clinical practice, including primary diagnosis, second opinion consultations, telepathology, and quality assurance.
  4. Discuss the role of digital pathology in supporting precision medicine initiatives, biomarker discovery, and personalized treatment strategies.
  5. Identify the challenges and considerations associated with implementing digital pathology systems in laboratory settings, such as infrastructure requirements, standardization of protocols, and regulatory compliance.
  6. Gain insights into the potential impact of digital pathology on pathology education and training, including virtual slide-based learning platforms and simulation exercises.
  7. Understand the evolving landscape of digital pathology technology and emerging trends, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms for automated image analysis and diagnostic decision support.
  8. Discuss the future directions and opportunities for integrating digital pathology into routine clinical workflows, improving diagnostic accuracy, and enhancing patient care outcomes.

Doing More with Less: Cytopathology in the Era of Precision Medicine

Topic Brief:

Cytologic samples are relatively easy to collect and can provide many valuable information which can guide patient management

Topic Outlines:

1 – Definition of Cytopathology

2- Types of cytologic samples

3- Slide preparation and staining

4- Ancillary testing on cytologic samples

5- Comparison with tissue samples

6- Case study

7- Summary 

Microbial Genomic and Bioinformatics Workshop

Topic Brief:

This workshop on “Microbial Genomics and Bioinformatics” is crafted for professionals and students engaged in clinical laboratory, as well as for those in the fields of biology, microbiology and biochemistry, focusing on the evolving challenges posed by emerging pathogens. It provides a deep dive into how microbial genomic data is pivotal in navigating the complexities of infectious diseases, refining diagnostic precision, and forging personalized therapeutic strategies. Attendees will gain hands-on experience with contemporary bioinformatics tools, learning to decipher and apply genetic information from pathogens to real-world scenarios. This session bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, highlighting the critical role of genomics in identifying resistance patterns, tracking disease outbreaks, and developing new treatment modalities. Aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery and outcomes, the workshop equips participants with the skills to leverage genomic insights in the battle against the ever-changing landscape of microbial threats.

Topic Outlines:

Learning Objectives of the Workshop:

  • Explore the evolution of Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and its role in transforming microbial genomics, emphasizing its impact on infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
  • Gain practical experience with bioinformatics tools for analyzing WGS data, applicable to various infectious agents for improved disease management.
  • Learn to effectively use genomic databases for analyzing pathogen genomes with WGS, enhancing understanding of resistance mechanisms and outbreak tracing.
  • Enhance skills in microbial sequence analysis via WGS, applying these to public health strategies against pathogens, using AMR as a prime example.
  • Utilize WGS data to inform clinical decision-making, showcasing its utility in tackling AMR and other infectious disease challenges.
  • Integrate WGS insights into clinical lab workflows, demonstrating how sequencing advancements revolutionize diagnostics and patient care.
  • Promote collaborative innovation in microbial genomics, using WGS as a foundation to address infectious disease complexities through a multidisciplinary approach.

Addressing Challenges and Opportunities in Laboratory Accreditation

Topic Brief:

The session will discuss the challenges and opportunities which will face the laboratories before, during and after the accreditation journey. Also, will make more emphasis on the right approach for getting the accreditation and the outcomes that expected from being accredited.

Objectives:

1-To explore the challenges in accreditations for the clinical laboratory.

2-To explain the importance of accreditations for the clinical laboratory.

3-To clarify the pitfalls of the processes of accreditations for the clinical laboratory staff.

Current situations and future directions of Cell Therapy processing lab in KSA

Objectives:

Organizations and laboratory providing cell therapy in KSA are limited, nevertheless, a national unified governance is highly required.

The growth and the need for the cell/ gene therapy, and biotechnology, is also an area of accelerated development in KSA, weather as a local need (therapeutic), or as potential industrial/ commercial use.

All of this mandate to adapted / develop all aspect of needed governance to fulfil this need, and specifically in: processing-production  areas.

Related wards: #CBAHI, #JACIE, #CAP, #AABB, #SFDA, #EBMT, #Insurance/ payer

Advanced Chemistry: Beyond Routine Lab Testing

Topic Brief:

This panel will discuss and updates the future of clinical biochemistry services for lab professionals and for improving of services.

Objectives:

Outlines

1) Opprtunites in the  clinical biochemistry for lab Profesionals

2) Updates for new markers and new assays.

3)  Introduction of  new techniques and methods.

4) The benefits of AI in clinical biochemistry

Microbiome and Human Health:From Bench to Bedside

Topic Brief:

The panel “Microbiome and Human Health: From Bench to Bedside” explores the fascinating universe of the human microbiome and its significant effects on our health. This discussion will guide us through groundbreaking research, highlighting the crucial role billions of tiny organisms living within us play in maintaining health, fighting diseases, and pioneering new treatments. Leading experts across microbiology, clinical practice, and therapeutic innovation will provide insights into making complex microbiome research accessible for everyday health solutions, focusing on the rise of personalized medicine. Participants will deepen their understanding of the microbiome’s influence on health and illness, discover cutting-edge research techniques, and discuss how to leverage the microbiome for clinical benefits. Ideal for health professionals, researchers, and the medically curious, this session promises a deep dive into the microscopic world’s massive impact on human well-being.

Objectives:

Learning Objectives of the Topic:

  • Grasp the foundational role of cutting-edge laboratory technologies in driving microbiome research forward.
  • Understand the processes and challenges in translating microbiome data into actionable clinical insights.
  • Learn about the development and impact of new diagnostic tools that leverage microbiome analysis.
  • Explore innovative therapeutic strategies emerging from microbiome studies, including personalized medicine applications.
  • Examine the ethical and logistical considerations of integrating microbiome research into mainstream healthcare practices.
  • Identify the potential of microbiome research to predict disease risk and inform preventative healthcare strategies.
  • Discover the role of bioinformatics and data analytics in enhancing microbiome research outcomes and clinical applications.
  • Engage with future directions for microbiome research, including interdisciplinary collaborations and novel research methodologies.

National Perspectives on Genetic Disorders: Challenges and Strategies for Improving Care in Consanguineous Communities

Topic Brief:

National Perspectives on Genetic Disorders: Challenges and Strategies for Improving Care in Consanguineous Communities.

Objectives:

The discussion panel at the lab conference will focus on “National Perspectives on Genetic Disorders: Challenges and Strategies for Improving Care in Consanguineous Communities.” Experts will delve into the unique challenges faced by consanguineous communities regarding genetic disorders, exploring strategies to enhance care and support, including the premarital screening program. The panel discussion aims to provide insights into the national perspective on addressing genetic disorders within consanguineous communities, highlighting innovative approaches and collaborative efforts to improve patient outcomes and promote genetic health awareness.

Doing More with Less: Cytopathology in the Era of Precision Medicine

Objectives:

  1. Understand the transition from traditional anatomical pathology methods to digitalization and the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in this evolution.
  2. Explore the benefits and challenges associated with adopting digital pathology systems in laboratory practice.
  3. Discuss the impact of digitalization and AI on workflow efficiency, turnaround times, and diagnostic accuracy in anatomical pathology.
  4. Identify key considerations for integrating digital pathology and AI technologies into existing laboratory infrastructure and workflows.
  5. Learn about the potential applications of AI in anatomical pathology, including image analysis, pattern recognition, and predictive analytics.
  6. Discuss the ethical and regulatory implications of using AI algorithms for diagnostic decision support in pathology.
  7. Gain insights into the training and education requirements for pathologists and laboratory professionals in the era of digital pathology and AI.
  8. Explore collaborative opportunities between pathologists, technologists, and data scientists to advance the development and validation of AI algorithms for pathology diagnosis.
  9. Understand the role of digitalization and AI in facilitating interdisciplinary collaboration and improving patient care outcomes in anatomical pathology.
  10. Discuss future trends and directions in the field of digital pathology and AI, including potential innovations and areas for further research and development.