Groundbreaking initiative begins in the heart of the city region
Laboratory specialist, BioGrad, is leading the way in the collection and storage of umbilical cords across the North West, marking a crucial first step in an initiative set to transform regenerative medicine and cancer research across the UK.
With its pioneering approach to biomedical science, BioGrad’s state-of-the-art biobank facility is helping to spark a real shift in regenerative medicine and cancer research. Collections are already underway across Lancashire, Cheshire and Warrington, and BioGrad is actively encouraging expectant mothers to take part in this vital research.
BioGrad is now collecting between 90 and 130 umbilical cords per month. Through these donations, BioGrad is powering major advances in healthcare by supplying samples to cancer research projects throughout the UK. This initiative marks a pivotal shift in how postnatal tissue is viewed, not as waste, but key to scientific breakthroughs.
Expectant mothers can offer to donate at any stage of their pregnancy. Participation is non-invasive, completely safe, and free of charge. After delivery, one of BioGrad’s highly trained nurses collects the umbilical cord, which is then transported to BioGrad’s Biobank for preservation and analysis. Participants will also receive £50 in expenses upon successful completion.
These cord blood and tissue samples enable researchers to explore a wide range of medical conditions including infertility, endometriosis, premature ovarian failure, leukaemia, arthritis, neurodegenerative diseases, and macular degeneration. The samples also play a central role in experimental haematology, helping scientists better understand the development and progression of blood disorders.
Crucially, this research is accelerating progress in stem cell biology, allowing scientists to develop scalable and cost-effective methods for deriving specific cell types for clinical research. BioGrad’s biobank is also contributing to our understanding of the neonatal immune system and enabling the development of diagnostic tools for genetic conditions in newborns through the use of cord-derived biomarkers and DNA.
Beyond supporting excellent research, BioGrad is committed to nurturing future scientific talent. BioGrad is sponsoring 16 research projects, predominantly women, and partnering with Edge Hill University and the University of Chester to give MRes students direct access to these clinical samples, providing invaluable hands-on research experience. Courses start from September 2025.
Dr Natalie Kenny, CEO, BioGrad, said:
“For too long, so many conditions affecting women have been overlooked or not studied enough. But now, through research, we have a real chance to change that, not just by making new scientific discoveries, but by giving women and families the chance to be part of something that could transform lives for generations to come.
“By leading the collection and storage of umbilical cords across the North West, we are contributing to vital research and gaining new understandings in everything from infertility and endometriosis to childhood genetic disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.
“We are inviting women across the North West to join us in this important journey to help drive discoveries and medical progress that could make a real difference.”
Hannah McGowan, Clinical Specialist Nurse, said:
“Donating your umbilical cord may seem like a small act, but for a woman, it holds the power to make a profound impact. It requires very little effort, yet the potential is groundbreaking. That single donation can contribute to life-changing medical research and provide hope to countless individuals facing serious health challenges.”
For more information about BioGrad, visit the website, X and Facebook.
