Answers from the Lab

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss the value laboratories deliver for their entire health system. They cover how laboratories impact:Growth in revenueGrowth in lab chargesGrowth in ancillary servicesHospital length of stayControl over expensesYou can also find more in-depth information on this topic in “Maximizing your health system's financial performance,” a white paper with data-driven ways laboratories support their organizations. 

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss tick-borne diseases. They cover:Different diseases patients can get from ticks. Disease prevention, including Dr. Pritt's A through Z flash cards with tips for people to protect themselves from infectious insects.Laboratory medicine's valuable role in testing and educating providers to diagnose patients quickly and accurately.Clinical areas most likely to encounter patients with tick-borne diseases.Reliable sources for details about the prevalence of different diseases around the country (e.g., U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Mayo Clinic Laboratories).

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, is joined by Russ Lebovitz, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and co-founder of Amprion. They discuss their strategic collaboration and the innovative SAAmplify™–αSYN (CSF) test. They covered: Details about how the cerebrospinal fluid biomarker test (Mayo ID: ASYNC) benefits patients exhibiting signs and symptoms of clinically uncertain cognitive decline or clinically uncertain Parkinsonian syndromes.Groundbreaking science on proteins that Amprion leveraged to create a solution that meaningfully impacts patient care and provides value to clinicians.Information physicians receive from the test, and when they should consider ordering it for their patients. Opportunities to change diagnostic journeys by providing accurate, early diagnosis with SAAmplify–αSYN. 

Paul Jannetto, Ph.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' SPAS test identifies the form of arsenic present in patients with arsenic exposure. That information is important for determining the potential level of harm and for removing the patient from the arsenic source to ease symptoms and prevent cancer risk.Speaker 3: (00:33) Do you mind telling us a little bit about yourself and your background? Speaker 3: (01:45)Could you please provide us with an overview of arsenic, how people get exposed, and the laboratory testing for arsenic and arsenic speciation? Speaker 3: (05:25)Which patients should have this testing, and when should it be performed? Speaker 3: (06:57)What alternative test options are available, and how does testing at Mayo Clinic compare? Speaker 3: (08:37)How are the results used in patient care?

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss the recent court judgment on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) oversight of lab-developed tests (LDT). They covered:  Details about the ruling to vacate the FDA's rule on LDT oversight. What LDT oversight might look like in the future. How the laboratory medicine industry can help create an oversight approach that is positive for both patients and innovation. 

Jessica Wright, Pharm.D., BCACP, explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' 3A5Q test helps determine initial tacrolimus doses for individuals after organ transplants. Optimal doses can vary by patient ethnicity and are key to successful transplantation.Speaker 3: (00:32) Could you provide us a with little bit about your background and yourself? Speaker 3: (03:45) Will you please provide a brief overview of Mayo test 3A5Q? Speaker 3: (06:56) Which patients should have this testing, and when should it be performed? Speaker 3: (08:15) What alternative or complementary tests should be considered? Speaker 3: (09:25)How are the results used in patient care? Speaker 3: (10:38)Will you help the audience understand the significance of monitoring tacrolimus levels for transplant rejection? Speaker 3: (12:53)What alleles are included in this test?

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, invited Min-Han Tan, M.B.B.S., FRCP, Ph.D., founding CEO and medical director of Lucence, to discuss liquid biopsy cancer testing. Mayo Clinic Laboratories and Lucence recently announced a collaboration to expand access to this cutting-edge cancer test that is designed to detect clinically relevant biomarkers in ctDNA and ctRNA.During their conversation, Dr. Morice and Dr. Tan explore:Inspiration for developing the liquid biopsy.Features that differentiate LiquidHALLMARK® from existing cancer tests.Patients who will benefit from the test and how an oncologist might use the results.The future potential of liquid biopsy advancements.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss the evolution of retail health. They cover several key topics, including:The emergence of retail health locations.Three types of care that are well-suited for a retail approach to healthcare.The importance of incorporating diagnostics when designing retail health.Keep up with the latest diagnostic news and Dr. Morice's insights on LinkedIn and X. 

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss infectious disease activity around the nation. They cover:    The high prevalence of influenza A, avian influenza, measles, and COVID-19. Reliable resources for information on the spread of infectious diseases. Prevention measures and their impact on the spread of infectious diseases. The risks associated with multiple infectious diseases circulating simultaneously at high rates. 

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by Elitza Theel, Ph.D., director of the Infectious Diseases Serology Laboratory at Mayo Clinic, for a conversation about innovation in testing for sexually transmitted infections (STI). Topics include: The advantages and challenges of new types of specimen collection and testing methods, including over-the-counter, at-home, and point-of-care options. Implications home testing has for clinicians and public health. Barriers to making more at-home collection and over-the-counter testing products for STI testing.The growing need for tests to detect resistance markers as antimicrobial resistance increases. 

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, for a conversation about quality management. Specifically, they discuss: The benefit of investing in quality management for patients, staff, and the organization.How Mayo Clinic's Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology in Rochester evolved and grew its quality management program.The advantage of holding 5–10-minute huddles each day.How the lab leverages education on quality tools and Gemba Walks to empower all staff to invest in quality management.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories. They discuss recent business trends in diagnostics and why it is important for pathologists to stay informed about these trends. Their conversation covers: What's driving a renewed interest in investing in diagnostics.Why the knowledge pathologists have is so valuable in the current landscape.How the evolving expectations of laboratory professionals will make it important to stay informed about business trends.

Sanjeev Sethi, M.D., Ph.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' new mass spectrometry test (Mayo ID: MSMN) identifies most antigens now known to cause membranous nephropathy. Precise identification of antigens is important for optimal management of this serious kidney disease.Speaker 3: (00:32) Would you mind telling us a little bit about yourself and your background? Speaker 3: (01:58) Would you give us an overview of membranous nephropathy?  Speaker 3: (07:14) Could you tell us a little bit about this new assay? Speaker 3: (14:29) Could you give a little example of how a clinician might use this information to treat their patients differently than how they would've in the past?   

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories. They discuss Dr. Morice's recent article in Becker's Hospital Review, “Nine Developments Predicted to Shape Laboratory Medicine and Diagnostics in 2025,” and go deeper into conversation about: The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence and large language models.Digital pathology.Proteomics, metabolomics, and mass spectrometry.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by Erin Graf, Ph.D., co-director of Microbiology in the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at Mayo Clinic in Arizona, to discuss benefits of automation in the laboratory.   Topics of discussion include:Specific examples of how they are using automation in the laboratory. Strategies for ensuring a smooth implementation and a positive experience for staff. The potential of automation to support staff and continued patient care excellence amid projected labor shortages in the future. 

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss emerging concerns about H5N1 avian influenza. Specific topics of discussion include:Patterns of transmission and what they indicate about the potential of person-to-person transmission. Tools, tests, and processes that emerged in recent years that are making it easier to understand and track this virus. Remaining unknowns about the virus and how it could evolve. 

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss the progress of artificial intelligence (AI) and what's next in this space.Specific topics of discussion include:What's driving the rapid acceleration of AI advancements.Ethical concerns and opportunities.How expenses, payment models, and culture influence AI advancements.The need to rethink training and education amid the rise of AI solutions.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss the latest in infectious disease outbreaks.    Specific topics of discussion include:Recent trends in the spread of H5 bird flu and dengue fever. Why it's important to think globally when monitoring infectious diseases.Extra precautions to take during the holiday travel season to keep you and those around you healthy.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss how labs can enhance patient access to improve health equity.Specific topics of discussion include:Innovations creating new possibilities, such as mobile clinics, at-home tests, and artificial intelligence.The responsibility of laboratory professionals to help guide the use of these new tools and the importance of collaboration between health systems.What's needed to make solutions scalable and sustainable.Learn more in Dr. Morice's “Lab Manager” article. 

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by genetic counselors Carrie Lahner, M.S., CGC, and April Studinski Jones, M.S., CGC, to discuss how family medical history can inform genetic testing strategies.   Specific topics of discussion include:The seven main types of genetic testing, and how clinicians know when and what genetic testing to order.Key family history details to collect to inform decisions about genetic testing. How genetic counselors collaborate with physicians and laboratorians to make testing decisions. Recent genetic testing advancements that are improving diagnostics. 

John Logan Black, M.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' UGT1A1 tests (Mayo IDs: U1A1Q and UGTFZ) identify genetic variants that increase the risk of potentially life-threatening reactions to irinotecan, a chemotherapy agent.Speaker 3: (00:32) Could you give us a brief overview about your background and yourself? Speaker 3: (02:16) Could you explain the role of the UGT1A1 gene and its significance in the pharmacogenomics of irinotecan?  Speaker 3: (05:34) What specific tests do we offer for UGT1A1 at Mayo Clinic Laboratories? Speaker 3: (08:01) Can you clarify the difference between targeted genotyping and full gene sequencing, and when each method is most appropriate? Speaker 3: (10:36)Could you elaborate on the specific clinical indications for testing in relation to irinotecan? Speaker 3: (13:27) How do UGT1A1 test results impact the dosing of irinotecan? What should clinicians consider when using those results?  Speaker 3: (14:02) Are there any other factors or related genes that should be considered alongside UGT1A1, particularly for cancer therapy?

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss recent outbreaks in vaccine-preventable diseases.  Specific topics of discussion include:Recent increases in outbreaks of infectious diseases, such as pertussis, measles, and polio. The serious side effects of the diseases. What's fueling the resurgence of these diseases.Testing options for infectious diseases and resources for physicians.

While confirmed cases for many respiratory illnesses are currently low, they will almost certainly spread as we move further into fall and winter. Now is the perfect time to prepare and take steps to protect yourself from everything from COVID-19 and influenza to RSV and the common cold. In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss practical steps for protecting yourself and innovations that are making testing and vaccination easier. Specific topics of discussion include:The importance of vaccinations and preventive measures to keep you healthy. Innovations that are making it possible to provide more at-home options for vaccination and testing and when these options will be most beneficial. The latest status on avian influenza.

Megan Hoenig, M.S., M.P.H., CGC, explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' unique hypermethylation analysis (Mayo ID: MLHPB) provides critical adjunct information for managing Lynch syndrome. That genetic condition increases patients' risk for many kinds of cancer.Speaker 3: (00:32) Could you provide our listeners with a little bit about yourself and your background? Speaker 3: (01:27) Could you give an overview of our MLH1 hypermethylation, also referred to as MLHPB in our test catalog?  Speaker 3: (02:48) Can you talk about why your team thought it was really important to develop this test? Speaker 3: (04:03) What patients would this testing really benefit? Speaker 3: (06:10)How are the results used in patient care? Speaker 3: (07:56) Anything else you would like our listeners to hear about MLHPB?

From cyberattacks to utility failures, technology disruptions are a growing risk in an increasingly digitized and automated laboratory environment. Planning for technology disruptions positions laboratories to embrace the full power of automation, artificial intelligence, and digitization while still meeting critical patient care needs during an outage. In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by John Osborn, operations administrator in the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at Mayo Clinic, who helps lead efforts to prepare for technology disruptions in the laboratory. Specific topics of discussion include:Immediate considerations when a technology disruption occurs and prioritizing the restoration of systems and processes. How to create strategies and tools to guide decision-making and operations amid multiple outage scenarios. Lessons learned from real life examples, including the importance of clear communication, empowering lab directors to make decisions, and pre-planning for recovery. Preventive measures and risk mitigation strategies you can take today to make it easier to respond during a future incident.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by Alicia Algeciras-Schimnich, Ph.D., a professor of laboratory medicine and pathology at Mayo Clinic and co-director of the Clinical Immunoassay Laboratory. They discuss Mayo Clinic's plasma test for detecting Alzheimer's disease and how it supports increased access and early detection. Specific topics of discussion include:The phospho-Tau 217 plasma test (Mayo ID: PT217) used to evaluate individuals aged 50 years and older with symptoms of cognitive impairment who are being assessed for Alzheimer's disease and other causes of cognitive decline.The benefits of a blood test versus the other diagnostic methods for Alzheimer's disease.Why early diagnosis is so important for quality of life and treatment planning.How tests like Mayo Clinic Laboratories' PT217 may change the landscape of Alzheimer's research and treatment.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by Dong Chen, M.D., Ph.D., chair of the Division of Hematopathology in the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology at Mayo Clinic. They discuss rare and inherited platelet disorders and esoteric laboratory testing of hematologic disorders.Specific topics of discussion include:How these rare disorders are diagnosed through laboratory tests.Why platelet transmission electron microscopy is considered the gold standard for diagnosing disorders like Hermansky Pudlak syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, Chediak Higashi syndrome, and Jacobson/Paris-Trousseau syndrome.The process involved with developing and validating the PTEM test (Mayo ID: PTEM) at Mayo Clinic.The importance of ongoing research and advocacy to enhance care for patients with rare platelet disorders.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories. They discuss the latest news in pathogen activity and how these viruses serve as an important reminder of the role of the public-private lab partnership.Their discussion includes:How the United States addresses emerging pathogens and the importance of a partnership between public health laboratories and private or clinical laboratories.Why access to testing is vital to prevent pathogen outbreaks and pandemics.The need for an effective legal framework around pandemic and hazard preparedness.Current diagnostic efforts around mpox, bird flu, and COVID-19, and opportunities to expand at-home testing.

Matthew Schultz, Ph.D., and Amy White, M.S., CGC, explain how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' unique urine assay (Mayo ID: SORD) screens for peripheral neuropathy arising from SORD gene variants. Although recently identified, SORD-related peripheral neuropathy is fairly common.(00:31) Would you share a little bit about yourself and your background? (01:11) Could you provide us with an overview of this particular peripheral neuropathy?  (03:09) Can you share the background as to how your team learned about this condition and how you considered testing for it? (04:42)Would you explain what you saw when you performed the urine test on the first patient? (05:26) Were you able to test additional patients with this condition? (06:09)Could you expand on why this urine test is important? (07:20) How does a health care provider order urine testing for SORD deficiency? (07:59) How does this new SORD urine test complement the existing Mayo Clinic Laboratories test menu? (08:55)Could you summarize the benefits of ordering this SORD urine test at Mayo?

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, is joined by special guest Donald Thomas, M.D., a rheumatologist and lupus researcher. They discuss how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' suite of innovative lupus testing, offered in collaboration with Progentec Diagnostics, is enhancing the care and quality of life for patients affected by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).Their discussion includes:Symptoms of lupus and characteristics of the complex disease process.The role of laboratory testing in diagnosing and managing long-term treatment for patients with lupus.Dr. Thomas' clinical experience using the Progentec aiSLE® DX Lupus Flare Risk Index and Lupus Disease Activity Index for his patients, and how these tests have enhanced collaborative treatment planning.Why these novel tests are a major step forward in expanding diagnostic tools and improving care for patients living with SLE.

John Mills, Ph.D., and Divyanshu Dubey, M.B.B.S., explain how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' new test panel can distinguish among various potential causes of demyelinating neuropathies. Test results are important for managing these devastating autoimmune conditions.Show notesSpeaker 3: (00:32) Would you provide a little background on yourself, Dr. Mills? Speaker 3: (01:19) Dr. Dubey? Speaker 3: (02:07) Can you give a brief overview of our demyelinating test and recommended use? Speaker 3: (03:52) Can you discuss how this new test will assist in a patient's journey? Speaker 3: (05:46) Can you tell us some of the unique features of this test? Speaker 3: (08:09) Dr. Dubey, as a neurologist, how does this test set us apart in the market? Speaker 3: (11:05) Could you summarize the benefits of having both a demyelinating panel and an axonal panel? Speaker 3: (11:40) Why should a patient have an axonal or demyelinating test versus a sensory and motor test for peripheral neuropathy?

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, is joined by special guests Bernard Rubin, D.O., MPH, chief medical officer of Progentec Diagnostics, and Melissa Munroe, M.D., Ph.D., chief scientific officer and principal investigator of Progentec Diagnostics. They discuss Mayo Clinic Laboratories' suite of innovative lupus testing, offered in collaboration with Progentec Diagnostics, for patients affected by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).Their discussion includes:The Progentec aiSLE® DX Lupus Flare Risk Index that uses an algorithm to calculate a flare risk index, which assigns a score based on a patient's risk of a forthcoming lupus flare.The Progentec aiSLE® DX Lupus Disease Activity Index that characterizes a patient's current disease activity into low, moderate, or active states.How these two tests were developed and for whom they are recommended.Why these tests are a significant development and how they enhance the quality of life for patients living with SLE.

Ann Moyer, M.D., Ph.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' unique genetic tests identify patients at high risk of severe reactions to fluoropyrimidines — a type of chemotherapy drug. Test results can guide clinical decision-making for safer cancer treatment.Speaker 3: (00:32) Would you tell us a little bit about yourself and your history with this testing? Speaker 3: (01:25) Would you tell us a little more about this assay? Speaker 3: (04:57) Which patients should have this testing and when should it be performed?  Speaker 3: (05:30) What alternative tests exist and how do they compare? Speaker 3: (06:28) How are the results used in patient care?

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories, to discuss the latest advancements in Alzheimer's disease testing and treatment.Their discussion includes:Why there is an increased focus on Alzheimer's disease in the diagnostics industry.The development of groundbreaking blood tests that can detect Alzheimer's-related biomarkers.The importance of accurate testing to avoid false positives.The role of laboratory scientists in guiding appropriate test usage.The promising new treatment options and the need for informed decision-making in a patient's healthcare journey.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories. They cover current trends, pain points, and opportunities for growth in the lab and diagnostics market.Their discussion includes:Insights from Dr. Morice's participation in an Advisory Board webinar about 2024 lab market trends.Why there is an increased demand for laboratory testing.The opportunities that come with digital pathology, at-home testing, and remote diagnostics.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by Matthew Binnicker, Ph.D., professor of laboratory medicine and pathology and clinical virologist at Mayo Clinic. They discuss the upsurge of mpox cases, particularly in Africa, and why the World Health Organization has declared it a public health emergency of international concern.Specific topics of discussion include:Background information on the monkeypox virus, and the current outbreak situation.What is contributing to the rapid spread of mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and neighboring countries.How the current mpox outbreak compares to the global outbreak in 2022, and lessons learned that could be applied today.Testing options for diagnosing mpox.What can be done to control the spread of mpox and prevent future outbreaks. 

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories. They discuss what's new and ongoing with pathogens and infections.Their discussion includes:Summer cases of COVID-19.H5N1 (avian influenza) activity and testing options.Increasing dengue fever infections.Outbreaks of listeria and cyclospora.The importance of public-private partnerships in preventing disease outbreaks and increasing access to testing.

Maria Alice Willrich, Ph.D., and Melissa Snyder, Ph.D., explain how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' unique risankizumab panel measures levels of both that drug and its antibodies in patients' blood. The results can better guide the management of patients with inflammatory bowel disease.Speaker 4: (00:32) Please give the audience a little information about yourself and your background. Speaker 4: (02:12) Please give the audience a brief overview of this assay. Speaker 4: (04:34) Which patients should have this testing and when should it be performed?  Speaker 4: (05:50) What alternative testing options are available and how do these compare? Speaker 4: (06:47) How are the results used in patient care?

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories. They discuss insights from Dr. Morice's recent travels abroad, including biomanufacturing, diagnostics, cybersecurity, and supply chain activities.Their discussion includes:What's happening in the global diagnostics industry and takeaways from visiting Saudi Arabia and Italy.Why countries are looking toward building their own biomanufacturing and diagnostic resources, and the impacts of a global supply chain.The evolution of digitalization and cybersecurity.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by Elitza Theel, Ph.D., director of the Infectious Diseases Serology Laboratory at Mayo Clinic, to discuss the increase of dengue cases in the United States and around the world.Specific topics of discussion include:The characteristics and symptoms of dengue virus.Current dengue activity in the United States, why cases are increasing, and how it may impact public health.Whether an individual infected with dengue has future immunity against the virus.Laboratory tests used to detect and diagnose dengue.How to protect against dengue and other vector-borne diseases.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories. They discuss how healthcare is a logical space to apply artificial intelligence (AI) technology and trends in how AI is being utilized.Their discussion includes:The benefits and pitfalls of using AI in clinical settings.Important factors to consider before implementing AI tools in the laboratory.A successful AI use case from the Parasitology Lab at Mayo Clinic, and how it enhanced turnaround times and staff satisfaction.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories. They discuss a case that was recently overturned by the Supreme Court of the United States that may have ramifications for the healthcare industry, including impacts on regulatory oversight.Their discussion includes:A summary of the Supreme Court ruling on June 28 to overturn the 1984 Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense Council decision, and how that impacts the power of federal agencies and the interpretations of the laws they administer.  How this decision may impact current healthcare issues like reimbursement and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) final rule on regulating laboratory-developed tests as medical devices.The ambiguity of what comes next, and the importance of engaging members of Congress on these important decisions.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by Paul Jannetto, Ph.D., director of the Metals Laboratory at Mayo Clinic, and Sarah Erdahl, technical specialist coordinator in the Metals Laboratory. They discuss their unique opportunity to complete testing on locks of hair from the composer Ludwig von Beethoven.Specific topics of discussion include:How Mayo Clinic came to be involved in the project, and what historians were hoping to learn from the test results.The technical process of preparing, handling, and testing Beethoven's hair.What the test results revealed about Beethoven's health.An overview of Mayo Clinic's Metals Laboratory and the specialized testing that occurs in the lab.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories. They discuss the summertime activity of COVID-19 and the latest updates with avian influenza (H5N1).Their discussion includes:The recent rise in COVID cases and how the new FLiRT variants of the virus are affecting the immune system.Updates on avian influenza activity and the risk for more mutations and human infections.How the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is responding to the avian flu outbreaks and how laboratories are preparing to support testing needs.Reminders of how to best protect yourself and your loved ones from infectious diseases this summer.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories. They discuss the platform business model and how it's being used in the healthcare industry to drive innovation and reimagine how care is provided.Their discussion includes:Key takeaways from the recent conference hosted by Mayo Clinic Platform.What constitutes a platform and how the model is being implemented in the healthcare industry.How the platform model can transform the way healthcare is delivered, and the implications this transformation has on laboratory medicine and pathology.

Anastasia Zekeridou, M.D., Ph.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' updated panels and methodology boost the accuracy and efficiency of testing for three autoimmune neurology biomarkers. Early diagnosis is key to managing debilitating conditions associated with these antibodies.(00:32) Could you please give our listeners an overview of your role at Mayo Clinic? (01:22) What updates are happening in our laboratory to increase specificity when we receive a patient's serum and CSF for most of the CNS evaluations? (03:48) Why are these updates and additions important in the larger disease state?(06:16) Could you expound upon the relationship between the clinical practice and the lab? (08:32) What do these changes mean for patient care? (10:27) What about the inclusion of AMPA in the pediatric evaluation, and the inclusion of IgLON5 with autoimmune axonal? (12:58) How does your lab discern when it's time to add a biomarker? (15:44) What are you most excited about?

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by William Morice II, M.D., Ph.D., CEO and president of Mayo Clinic Laboratories. They discuss why measles remains a virus of concern, how avian flu continues to spread, and new developments in the federal regulation of laboratory-developed tests.Their discussion includes:How a person infected with measles recently traveled through a U.S. airport, and the severity of the measles virus.The continued deadly spread of avian flu among wild birds, domestic poultry, and cattle, and the infection of a third human.Avian flu vaccine development and the importance of emergency preparedness.The American Clinical Laboratory Association's (ACLA) lawsuit against the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the agency's final rule to treat laboratory-developed tests as medical devices.

Divyanshu Dubey, M.B.B.S., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' unique PDE10A and TRIM46 assays facilitate care for central nervous system disorders triggered by cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for managing disabling neurological symptoms and malignancy.(00:32) Could you tell us a bit about your background and your role at Mayo Clinic? (01:26) How do the tests that are coming live relate to the larger disease state of neurological disorders? (02:44) Can you share a little bit about the methodology we're using for these particular biomarkers?  (05:15) How was PDE10A discovered? (06:48) Anything you would add? (07:50) Remind us which phenotype-specific assays these biomarkers are being added to, and how physicians should determine whether this testing is appropriate? (09:55) What does early detection of these biomarkers mean for the patient's prognosis, diagnosis, treatment, etc.? (12:33) What are you most excited about with the launch of these tests?

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by Peter Lucas, M.D., Ph.D., vice chair of Research for the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (DLMP) at Mayo Clinic. Their discussion includes: Dr. Lucas' extensive pathology and research background and his journey to Mayo Clinic. His goals for expanding DLMP's research activities and advancing innovation in diagnostics.How laboratory research has evolved over his career and how researchers can continue to make progress despite obstacles.The importance of having good mentors, collaborating with others, staying curious, and remaining persistent to achieve goals.

In this episode of “Answers From the Lab,” host Bobbi Pritt, M.D., chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at Mayo Clinic, is joined by Matthew Binnicker, Ph.D., professor of laboratory medicine and pathology and clinical virologist at Mayo Clinic. They discuss the widespread outbreaks of H5N1 bird flu and the new “FLiRT” variants of COVID-19.Specific topics of discussion include:The current situation of avian flu activity across the world and throughout the United States, including outbreaks in poultry, U.S. dairy cows, and one recent human case.How this outbreak is different than previous ones, and the current public health risk.Resources for testing humans for avian flu.What we know about the new “FLiRT” variants of COVID-19 and how they might impact public health in the months ahead.

Robert Jenkins, M.D., Ph.D., Stephanie Smoley, CG(ASCP), and Beth Pitel, M.S., explain how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' augmented MayoComplete Solid Tumor Panel better profiles tumor genetics. Defining tumor pathogenesis can guide targeted cancer therapy. (00:31) Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background — Beth? (01:24) Stephanie, what about you? (01:42) Dr. Jenkins, a little bit about yourself and your background, please? (02:25) Could you provide a brief overview of the new MayoComplete Solid Tumor assay and the enhancements we've provided?(04:02) What changes did you incorporate into the test? (04:57) Why are copy number variants and loss of heterozygosity important, and how are they used in patient care? (07:12) Does including these genes guide patient care in a more valuable way? (07:51) What alternative test options are available and how do they compare to the MayoComplete Solid Tumor Panel? (10:27) Is having many options available in a one-stop shop important to help guide patient management? (11:57) Do you have anything else you'd like to add about the MCSTP enhancements and what the new test assay will deliver in terms of clinical utility or patient care?