SPARK-PE Pre-Validation Visit at St Thomas’ Hospital

In July 2026, the Lepzi team worked alongside colleagues and research partners at St Thomas’ Hospital in London as part of SPARK-PE (sFlt-1/PLGF Assay Rapid Kit for Pre-Eclampsia), a Gates Foundation-funded project focused on fingerstick test development and validation.

During the visit, the team carried out pre-validation testing of the point-of-care sFlt-1/PLGF ratio test currently under development. Biobank samples were used to generate valuable data for evaluating test performance and informing decisions about the next stages of development and future clinical studies.

The visit also included hands-on training in fingerstick blood collection and point-of-care test operation, led by Dr. Jayne Ellis from JEMMDx.

The intensive and highly productive visit brought together practical testing, knowledge sharing and valuable scientific discussions, demonstrating the importance of international collaboration in advancing diagnostic innovation and supporting maternal healthcare.

Lepzi extends its sincere thanks to Andrew Shennan OBE FMedSci, Alice Hurrell, Dr Mukape Mukape, Louisa Samuels and everyone who welcomed the team and contributed to the success of the visit.

Together, we move innovation closer to the patient.