BT-BT Research Facility
BT-BT Research Facility
The BT-BT Clinical Research Facility is a collaborative effort between the Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHES) and the University of Glasgow (UoG), supported financially by the Scottish Government, the World Bank, and KUHES. Situated at KUHeS main campus in Blantyre, along Mahatma Gandhi Road, the facility represents a significant advancement in the capacity and capability of clinical research in Malawi. It has a transformative impact on local healthcare delivery and operates as a self-sustaining, future-proofed translational research program in partnership with the government, major funders, and the international pharmaceutical industry.
The establishment of the Blantyre-Blantyre Research Facility, known as the “Centre for the Study of Multimorbidity,” marks a new era. It facilitates the training of local clinicians and allied health professionals while providing clinical services and conducting initial surveys to assess the burden of inflammatory non-communicable diseases in Malawi. These preliminary findings support larger surveys, intervention studies, and engagement with pharmaceutical companies.
The facility boasts state-of-the-art automated laboratory information and financial management systems, forming the foundation for its pursuit of international accreditation.
SERVICES OFFERED:
Research Services:
The BT-BT CLF conducts sample analysis for both local and international clinical research studies. It also assists in test development, protocol development, and collaboration. Current studies include:
a) KULA LEAP Study:
A comprehensive characterization of brain development (with a focus on executive functions) in children from Malawi and South Africa during the first 1000 days of life. This study is conducted in collaboration with the University of Liverpool (UK) and the University of Cape Town, led by Dr. Emmie Mbale.
b) Immunogenicity Study:
An observational cohort study investigating T-cells, antibodies, and vaccine effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 in Malawi. This study is conducted in collaboration with the University of Glasgow and the OCTAVE study. It encompasses local diseases such as malaria, asthma, and hypertension. Dr. Mwapatsa Mipando leads this study.
c) Dyslipidemia in Diabetic and Hypertension Patients at QECH, Blantyre Malawi:
This study, led by Dr. Kondwani Katundu, focuses on dyslipidemia in patients with diabetes and hypertension.
d) CHAI Study:
In this study, pathology slides are scanned using the MOTIC EASY Scanner. Dr. Kamiza leads the CHAI study.
Sample Processing:
The facility provides services for specimen handling, collection, extraction, shipping, and storage.
Diagnosis:
BT-BT CLF offers a wide range of diagnostic tests, including specialist tests. A test catalog is available at the reception. These services are accessible through all medical schemes.
Lab Space:
The facility offers laboratory space at a competitive price for investigators who require it.
Corporate Wellness and Occupational Health:
BT-BT CLF provides wellness checks for both individuals and company employees for preventive and promotive health.
For further information, please contact:
Animal House
Kamuzu University of Health Sciences
Blantyre Campus
Phone: +2651811443
Email: btbtcrf@kuhes.ac.mwm
