TriCore Research Institute: A Reliable Partner in Innovation

In the dynamic landscape of medical research and technological advancements, TriCore Research Institute (TRI) has partnered with organizations to make scientific advances in medicine

Infectious Disease Research Studies

The year 2020 marked a watershed moment for TriCore Research Institute (TRI). The outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic underscored the importance of agility and continuity in research efforts. Many laboratories and research organizations temporarily suspended operations. TRI was able to continue operating and ensure the safety of its staff. Equipped with the requisite skills, state-of-the-art equipment, and fully functioning laboratories, we not only survived but emerged as a cornerstone in the fight against the pandemic. TRI played an instrumental role by consistently supplying samples to manufacturers and performing the studies needed for the Federal Drug Administration’s (FDA) Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for COVID-19 tests.

Over the past several years, TRI has assisted with many infectious disease research studies – including novel influenza A (H1N1) flu, respiratory viruses, and sexually transmitted diseases. By furnishing researchers with essential specimens and participating in medical device studies, TRI has helped paved the way for point of care diagnostic tools to be accessible over the counter.

Digital Pathology

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping nearly every industry, its integration with digital pathology has the potential to revolutionize medical diagnostics. TRI’s Biorepository has helped drive progress by providing tissue samples to companies developing digital pathology technologies.

Rather than replacing pathologists, AI acts as an invaluable ally in their work. Through the meticulous analysis of digital imagery, AI algorithms can identify minute aberrations that might elude the human eye. For instance, AI could discern a single cancerous cell from thousands of benign cells, an accomplishment that could prove challenging for the human eye. This synergy of human expertise and AI-driven precision exemplifies the future of medical diagnostics.

Another usage within this burgeoning field involves the dual assessment approach. Here, the pathologist initially reviews the digital imagery, followed by AI-assisted analysis. The concurrence of their findings validates the accuracy and quality of the diagnosis. This approach reflects the harmonious interaction between human intuition and machine intelligence, establishing a robust framework for diagnostic accuracy.

Over the last few years, TRI’s Biorepository has provided numerous digital images and slides to various healthcare companies to aid in enhanced accessibility, accuracy, and quality in medical diagnostics. In fact, TriCore’s reference laboratory has incorporated digital pathology to better serve patients in New Mexico.