University of Manchester researchers have established a new social enterprise, Inspiral Biomedical Limited, to support the development of new tests and treatments for musculoskeletal conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis (University of Manchester, 2017).

Musculoskeletal conditions have a significant impact on people’s quality of life and are a huge burden on society. In the UK, around 21% of the population consults with a GP about musculoskeletal complaints each year and this figure is set to rise, as the population ages.

Over the past twenty years, researchers at The University of Manchester have established a uniquely rich collection of biological samples and data. This resource is now being opened up to other researchers through Inspiral Biomedical Limited.

Professor Anne Barton, Professor of Rheumatology at The University of Manchester and Chairperson of Inspiral Biomedical Limited, said “We know that our bank of biological samples and data holds an unprecedented opportunity to gain a better understanding of these conditions and how best to treat those individuals affected. In Manchester, we are already utilising this resource, but by making it available to other academic and industry researchers across the world will be able to bring new tests and treatments to patients more quickly.”

The researchers believe that the richness of the data and samples available from patients spanning a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, obtained before, during and after treatment, make this resource globally unique.