ExplantLab

Arthroplasty for Arthritis Charity are a fantastic organisation who have helped us with orthopaedic research over the last few years. They have now kindly provided ExplantLab with a grant to help us focus on: 1. Whole bacterial/fungal genome DNA sequencing of synovial fluid and explanted prostheses 2. Identifying human DNA variants associated with increased risk of developing infection This technology looks to be working extremely well and will prove to be important for improving patient care and reducing AMR. If you are in this field, please do consider sharing this to your network: we want to move quickly on this while preventing patient implants going in the bin. Suraj Kohli Simon Tilley BAJIR Registry Raghavendra Sidaginamale Nick Cooke Ian W Kennedy Ms (Dr) Samantha Tross Rohan Bhalekar, PhD Stephen Robert Wells Yash Borikar Matthew Nargol Raj Logishetty Charlie Charlton Richard Leech

Explants and infection. It looks like we may have managed to secure funding to continue our national research project. As part of this research, NHS hospitals can send explanted joint replacements to us, rather than throw them in the clinical waste. We are still probs only receiving a fraction - we estimate over 20,000 ended up incinerated/in landfill over the last 18 months. This is not acceptable in 2026. As routine analysis of these devices, we carry out whole bacterial genome sequencing to identify bacterial species (if present) and presence of genetic variants associated with antimicrobial resistance. It’s win win for all. Please do get in touch if you would like to link up.

Meet Michael Watts - an inspiring 100-year-old helping to shape the future of healthcare 💙 Michael recently became one of the oldest participants in our EXPLANTS research study by donating a blood sample to support work aimed at improving joint replacement care for generations to come.  The study, run in collaboration with ExplantLab in Newcastle, is exploring how implant materials interact with the immune system by analysing DNA, protein markers and tiny wear particles, to develop better tests and treatments for patients worldwide.  Michael’s incredible contribution shows the power of courage, generosity and a desire to help others. Even at 100, he serves as an inspiration to all, demonstrating that it is never too late to contribute to science.   Reflecting on his involvement, he said: “I hope my contribution helps improve medical science and benefits future generations.”

A little while ago, we noticed some genetic combinations associated with increased risk of infection post arthroplasty. We have been following this as more data has come in. Looking like a real signal, with an average of a threefold increase of PJI, at all time points, diverging at long term. KM looking blocky as only 35 infected cases compared to 800 controls. Aside from infection, there are so many things to study in the whole dataset: metal ions, PROMs, alignment and genetics. Please do get in touch if you would like to work with us on it. Total group of > 1500 patients (hips and knees) so far, should hit 2000 by April. Thanks for ongoing support from Innovate UK, Arthroplasty for Arthritis Charity and hard working colleagues Raghavendra Sidaginamale Moreica Pabbruwe Simon Tilley Ms (Dr) Samantha Tross and obvs ExplantLab: Rohan Bhalekar, PhD Stephen Robert Wells Matthew Nargol and Yash Borikar

🚀 Excited to be Exhibiting at Health Elevate 2025! We are thrilled to be part of Barclays Health Elevate 2025, showcasing innovation in health and life sciences at The Catalyst, Newcastle on Tuesday 14th October.   This event brings together founders, experts, and innovators tackling society's biggest healthcare challenges—from digital transformation and preventative care to biotech and sustainability. Expect thought-provoking panels, fireside chats, and the chance to meet over 100 pioneering businesses.   💡We are exhibiting alongside brilliant teams from Eagle Labs, universities, and health tech startups. Come say hello, explore the latest tech, and join the conversation on shaping the future of health care and life sciences💡 ExplantLab David Langton Rohan Bhalekar, PhD Barclays Eagle Labs