Durham University: Supporting pioneering health research to treat cancer

Prominent computer scientist, Dr Noura Al Moubayed from our Department of Computer Science, working with a leading cancer pharmacist, Dr Pinkie Chambers from University College London Hospitals (UCLH), has developed a proof-of-concept machine learning algorithm that can accurately predict liver and kidney function levels in cancer patients.

Their ground-breaking algorithm will support improved clinical decisions in treating cancer.

Predicting patient’s health in chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is commonly used in the treatment of cancer.

A concern relating to treatment is the damage it can cause to the kidneys and liver, and this means that all patients will need regular blood tests.

The algorithm predicts kidney and liver function that will be individualised to patients ahead of their chemotherapy treatment.

The result of this prediction will mean low risk patients can be saved unnecessary trips to hospital for unnecessary blood tests whilst ensuring effective monitoring for high-risk patients.

Innovate UK Grant
The pioneering project has received a £685,316 grant from Innovate UK, which is a part of the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

The project is led by Evergreen Life Ltd in collaboration with Durham University and UCLH, and aims to produce a proof-of-concept software application that will be developed by our leading academics.

The software will allow the validated algorithm to be used in live clinical practice that will allow over 10,000 high risk cancer patients to be more proactively monitored and potentially improve their care.