SCAN-DAN

Aims of the programme

The SCAN-DAN project was a pioneering initiative, one of three ‘pathfinder projects’ funded by global research collaboration NEURii. It aimed to translate existing brain scans into a commercially viable Proof of Concept tool that could help researchers and neurologists predict future cases of dementia and develop preventative care.

With approval from the Public Benefit and Privacy Panel for Health and Social Care (HSC-PBPP), the project data set was made up of 1.6 million de-identified CT and MRI scans from Scottish patients taken between 2008-2018. 

HIC’s role

HIC played a key role during SCAN-DAN by providing project management and governance expertise, alongside research guidance based on precursor projects (PIPaRD as part of PICTURES) which made up the fundamental building blocks for SCAN-DAN.

Impact

• The de-identified MRI and CT scans used during SCAN-DAN comprise of real-world clinical data from across Scotland, meaning that the dataset contains population-representative variability. This makes any model developed from the dataset applicable to a similar population.
• SCAN-DAN facilitated the development of future research initiatives by providing thoroughly curated datasets of brain scans thanks to a combination of capabilities developed through previous research projects including PICTURES.
• Creating a tool that can predict future cases of dementia could lead to an improved overall understanding of it and potentially earlier diagnosis. This would also make the development of new treatments easier and could lead to better prevention.

Conclusion

SCAN-DAN demonstrated how existing research assets can be rapidly mobilised toward future, potentially commercially viable outcomes through effective management of governance and stakeholder complexity. The project bridged prior research and new funding opportunities through NEURii while navigating challenging timelines and regulatory requirements. Proactive project management and coordination helped ensure key approvals and project activities remained aligned with project milestones, maintaining momentum and supporting successful delivery.