GSK announces opening of clinical imaging centre

Together with the Medical Research Council and Imperial College London, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has announced the opening of its new clinical imaging centre (CIC).

Opened by secretary of state for trade and industry Alistair Darling, the centre is the result of a 50 million pound investment and represents a partnership of industry with the public sector and academia.

The centre is the largest in Europe focused on the use of imaging technology for clinical research practices, with these methods to be used in efforts to develop novel treatments for a range of illnesses, including cancer and cardiovascular disease, as well as neurological and psychiatric conditions.

Located alongside Imperial College’s Hammersmith Hospital site, the CIC facility will be situated in close proximity to the workplace of a number of international experts in imaging technology.

Sir Richard Sykes, rector of Imperial College London, said: “This centre is a prime example of what can be achieved when universities, government and industry work side by side.

“It enables us to translate our scientific advances into improving patient care as quickly as possible.”

He added that the combination of medical expertise with the most modern available equipment will be used to increase the understanding of a number of medical conditions affecting millions worldwide.

In March 2007, GSK announced the appointment of Zhi Hong to its newly-established infectious diseases research centre.