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Maximize the utility of
imaging biomarkers
to the benefit of
patients with arthritis.
Learn more about the project  

AutoPiX is a major international project focused on improving healthcare for people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs).

The AutoPiX project brings together pharmaceutical and medical technology partners with leading academic institutions to enhance the use of imaging biomarkers for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), collectively known as systemic arthritides.

It aims to develop advanced imaging tools and artificial intelligence (AI) models to better diagnose, monitor, and treat these conditions. These tools will make use of imaging biomarkers—like X-rays, ultrasounds, and MRIs—to provide more precise and personalised care.

AutoPiX is a major international project focused on improving healthcare for people with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs).

The AutoPiX project brings together pharmaceutical and medical technology partners with leading academic institutions to enhance the use of imaging biomarkers for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), collectively known as systemic arthritides.

It aims to develop advanced imaging tools and artificial intelligence (AI) models to better diagnose, monitor, and treat these conditions. These tools will make use of imaging biomarkers—like X-rays, ultrasounds, and MRIs—to provide more precise and personalised care.

Learn more about the project  
Partners / QMUL – Queen Mary University of London

QMUL – Queen Mary University of London

The Centre for Experimental Medicine & Rheumatology (EMR) within the Queen Mary University of London comprises an integrated, multidisciplinary research team of Clinicians, Scientists, Biostatisticians and Bioinformaticians led by Professor Costantino Pitzalis. EMR research aims to understand disease pathogenesis better to develop novel therapeutics and maximise the therapeutic utility of existing therapies for several autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis. The Centre runs a strong basic science programme in the field of immunology & inflammation linked to a clinical translational programme in the following 4 research areas: (1) Breach of Tolerance and Autoimmunity, (2) Development and resolution of inflammation, (3) Mechanisms of Tissue Damage and Repair and (4) Developing new therapies through basic research (e.g. tissue-specific targeting) and clinical trials. EMR is leading the Musculoskeletal (MSK) science core theme of the recently designated NIHR Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) awarded to Barts Health NHS Trust in partnership with QMUL in 2023. The BRC aims to accelerate the delivery of precision healthcare from basic/discovery science to clinical practice.

What is the role of QMUL in Autopix

Queen Mary University of London will contribute to the AutoPiX project by providing radiographs and ultrasound images of patients enrolled in precision medicine rheumatoid arthritis (RA) clinical trials. These unique cohorts provide matching imaging and synovial tissue samples, allowing us to explore the direct relationship between imaging and synovial (joint) inflammation. In addition, in collaboration with MUW, Queen Mary will contribute to the PIX-TISSUE 1 prospective study. In this study, patients with RA will undergo a new type of scan (called FAPI-PET/CT scan) and have a joint biopsy, allowing the comparison of images and tissue samples to assess if the new scan can improve how doctors diagnose and track the progression of arthritis.

Contact

Prof Costantino Pitzalis
Centre Lead
Dr Felice Rivellese
Senior clinical lecturer
Dr Liliane Fossati-Jimack
Clinical & Research manager
Louise Warren
Clinical trial manager