Flow Forward at ALFC 2024: Embracing Future Innovations and Collaborations in Lateral Flow

This year, however, we’re turning a particular eye to the future. This year’s theme, “Flow Forward,” reflects the 2024 ALFC Organizing Committee’s commitment to advancing technology and fostering collaboration. With “Flow Forward,” we’re not just reacting to the rapidly evolving diagnostics landscape we’ve experienced in recent years; we’re championing its innovators and creating partnerships that will lead to next-generation solutions and ensure a vibrant future for the lateral flow industry.

Every session and networking opportunity at the conference has been carefully crafted to embody our theme. While I’d love to showcase each of the exceptional sessions we’ve planned, space limits me to just a few key highlights. (I highly recommend checking out our complete agenda for a look at what’s in store.)

Funding and Commercialization

The first day of ALFC 2024 focuses on the essentials of funding and commercialization in the lateral flow sector, providing attendees with strategies and insights for navigating the investment landscape. The fluctuating financial landscape post-pandemic has reshaped how life sciences, particularly diagnostics, approaches funding and commercialization. We’ll explore the latest trends in financial backing and practical approaches to propel lateral flow projects to success.

A standout session, led by Giles Hamilton, Chairman of Panacea, Transdermal Dx, and SciLogica, is aptly titled “Investment Pathways in Lateral Flow: Shaping the Future of Rapid Diagnostics.” Giles will delve into the evolving strategies and trends driving investment in the IVD market. Hamilton’s expertise in guiding successful companies in the life sciences space makes this session invaluable for anyone looking to advance their projects through strategic funding or invest in the rapidly growing field of healthcare technology.

I am also delighted that Eric Lai, Ph.D., Managing Executive, PharmaDx LLC, Team Lead, NIH COVID-19 Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics (RADx) Initiative, and Scientific Lead, Independent Technology Assessment Program (ITAP), will be with us to lead a session that educates our attendees about the ITAP. ITAP is a government initiative designed to support the development and acquisition of innovative technologies in healthcare, including lateral flow assays. ITAP aims to facilitate the transition of new diagnostic tools from development to market by providing financial support and streamlining the procurement process. This program represents a critical lifeline for diagnostic companies seeking to navigate the post-pandemic funding landscape, ensuring that the momentum in diagnostic innovation continues unabated.

My friend and colleague, Pat Vaughan, COO, DCN Dx, kicks off Day 1 with his session, “Future-Proofing Lateral Flow: Insights from More Than 500 LFA Development Programs Over 30 Years.” Having worked side-by-side with Pat, I can personally attest to his unparalleled depth of insight and expertise in the field. I’m particularly excited to hear Pat distill his vast experience into key strategies that can guide us toward a more innovative and resilient future in lateral flow diagnostics. I can’t wait to see what he shares and the impactful discussions it will undoubtedly spark among attendees!

Highlighting Innovation

On the second day, the spotlight turns to the technological advancements and future directions of lateral flow assays. Discussions will center on the role of evolving technologies, such as AI and machine learning, in enhancing testing accuracy and expanding the potential for at-home and wellness applications.

The evolution of at-home care and wellness applications using LFAs is at the forefront of healthcare delivery. On Day 2, we’ll discuss how the latest research in flow control technology is advancing LFAs, enabling them to perform complex biomedical assays outside of laboratory settings. Innovations like these allow for more sophisticated at-home tests (such as multiplex molecular diagnostics for pathogens) and are paving the way for LFAs to be used in a broader range of applications, enhancing user engagement and personal health management. Our Day 2 keynote speaker, Hamid Ghanadan, Founder and CEO, LINUS, will present his firm’s research in this important area during his session, “Home is the Center of Health.”

Sean Redmond, Director of Global Product Management, QuidelOrtho, continues this important discussion about new application areas in his session, “Increasing Value by Exploring New Settings and Use Cases for Lateral Flow Testing.”

For the last few years, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) has captured the minds of the world, including some of the best and brightest in the lateral flow industry. These cutting-edge technologies are set to redefine diagnostics, enhancing precision and speed in testing and results reporting. A session led by DCN Dx Senior Scientist John Scott will delve into how AI and ML can optimize data analysis, improve diagnostic accuracy, and streamline the LFA development process.

I moderate a panel on Day 2 on the topic of “Digital Integration Panel Discussion: Customized Lateral Flow Readers for Emerging Home-Use and Niche Applications.” In this session, we’ll discuss the evolution of readers and other technology to accommodate these burgeoning applications. The conversation will not only delve into technical advancements but also explore how these innovations are shaping user experiences and opening new possibilities in personalized healthcare and niche markets. This panel is a must-attend for those interested in the cutting edge of lateral flow technology and its practical implications.

Networking and Industry Awards

As always, networking is a key feature of the ALFC, and there are numerous opportunities to build partnerships.

We kick off our networking events with a welcome reception in the exhibition room on February 12. The party starts at 5:30 pm. If you will be arriving in time, I encourage you to grab your badge and come say hello to your fellow attendees!

The exhibition room is a great place to network throughout the conference. Open each day from 8 to 5, this is where you can meet our sponsoring exhibitors who represent the most knowledgeable organizations in this space. They are a wealth of knowledge and I hope you all take advantage of the opportunity to visit them. Coffee and snacks will be available daily in the exhibition room lounge, proudly sponsored by Multisorb.

All meals are included in your conference registration and—let me tell you—you have not had conference food like this before! Our team has lovingly prepared nutritious and hearty menus for all meals. These are wonderful opportunities to “break bread” with our colleagues from around the world. Our lunch sponsor this year is Detekt Biomedical. Be sure to seek them out and say hello!

And before you ask—yes, the beloved ice cream bar is back for our Day 2 afternoon break!

Also returning are the ALFC awards. The Innovation Award, a cornerstone of previous years, recognizes individuals or teams that have introduced groundbreaking products or technologies that expand the lateral flow industry’s horizons. Award additions for 2024 include Leadership in Diagnostics, the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Poster Awards for poster sessions. The Leadership in Diagnostics Award acknowledges an individual or organization that has demonstrated outstanding leadership, fostered collaboration, and contributed strategically to the growth and evolution of the lateral flow diagnostics sector. Meanwhile, the Lifetime Achievement Award is conferred upon those whose careers have been marked by sustained and significant impacts, setting a benchmark for commitment and excellence in the field.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t plug our amazing evening receptions. Day 1 of the conference features a sophisticated off-site event at Coastera’s floating venue. If you were with us in 2021, you’ll remember the gorgeous sunset we had overlooking the bay that evening. We’ll be in the same spot this year—cross your fingers for another view like that!

Day 2 will culminate in an unforgettable closing reception and awards gala. The event, themed “Glow Forward,” will be held on the Hard Rock Hotel’s rooftop deck overlooking downtown San Diego. All award recipients will be announced onstage at the closing reception and awards gala on February 14. This event promises to be a party to remember. We hope you’ll join us!

Flow Forward with ALFC 2024

The 2024 ALFC’s “Flow Forward” theme is a call to action. It’s a philosophy that carries into every presentation, panel, and event we’ve curated for you.

By fostering an environment where innovators find their voice and where collaboration flourishes, your participation at ALFC 2024 ensures the lateral flow industry continues to evolve—not incrementally, but in leaps and bounds.

Registration ends February 9. I hope to welcome you all personally! See you there!