This presentation highlights the spatial proteomic characterisation of renal cell carcinomas, focusing on metabolic reprogramming within the tumour microenvironment and its association with disease progression.
MacLean outlined her role overseeing scientific affairs at NeoGenomics, which encompasses clinical trials and the development of scientific projects informed by current literature. She described NeoGenomics as comprising three integrated companies, with a strong presence in both the US and UK, and emphasised their expertise in clinical trial services, oncology data solutions, and diagnostic testing for key biomarkers.
The presentation detailed NeoGenomics’ comprehensive lab services, including pathology, spatial analysis, and support for a wide range of assays such as IHC, FISH, cytogenetics, and genomics. MacLean highlighted the company’s strategic focus on advanced testing modalities and therapeutic solutions, particularly in the rapidly evolving field of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), which are increasingly prominent in clinical trials.
A significant portion of the talk centred on NeoGenomics’ spatial analysis capabilities, notably the Paletrra assay workflow enabled by RareCyte Cytefinder technology. MacLean explained the transition from region of interest analysis to whole slide imaging, the expansion of validated biomarker panels, and the development of proprietary AI-driven image analysis tools. She emphasised the importance of tailored reports and consultation, ensuring that spatial analytics address specific biological questions.
The case study on renal cell carcinomas revealed new data, with differential expression analysis showing marked immune response differences between tumour stages. MacLean discussed the paradox of increased antigen presentation alongside immune evasion, and the emergence of immunosuppressive phenotypes in advanced stages, characterised by inhibitory ligands and exhausted immune cells. The findings underscored the complexity of the tumour microenvironment and the potential for therapeutic intervention, particularly in early disease stages.
MacLean concluded by highlighting the robustness of NeoGenomics’ assays, the integration of spatial analysis into clinical trials, and the ongoing development of both off-the-shelf and custom biomarker panels, positioning the company at the forefront of spatial proteomics and translational oncology research
