Innovation in Health: How SYNLAB Transforms Diagnostics with Technology and Research

SYNLAB, a European leader in medical diagnostics, stands out as a benchmark in health innovation, as well as in research and development (R&D), by combining cutting-edge technologies and a vast network of specialists. Operating in over 30 countries across four continents, the company conducts approximately 600 million tests annually, solidifying its position as a key pillar in supporting preventive and evidence-based medicine. 

What is health innovation? 

Health innovation refers to the intentional introduction of new ideas, technologies, processes, products, and approaches aimed at improving the quality, efficiency, and accessibility of services, benefiting both the institutions that adopt them and individuals, groups, or society at large (1, 2). 

This concept encompasses everything from technological advancements like medical devices and artificial intelligence to improvements in care models, data management, and the development of personalized therapies. 

What are innovation tests? 

Innovation tests are diagnostic tools that leverage advanced technologies, methodologies, and biomarkers to deliver greater accuracy, efficiency, and relevance in results. By incorporating advanced techniques such as genetic sequencing, real-time analysis, and personalized medicine approaches, these tests provide a more detailed understanding of patients’ health conditions. 

Commitment to Innovation 

SYNLAB’s innovation in laboratory reference services in Brazil is built on three main pillars: adopting advanced technologies, such as state-of-the-art diagnostic platforms and automation to ensure greater precision and speed; personalizing tests to meet specific needs with genetic tests and microbiome analyses, fostering more patient-centered care; and continuously investing in research and development (R&D), adapting global methodologies to the specificities of the Brazilian market, ensuring accessibility, reliability, and scientific excellence. 

Furthermore, the company continuously invests in professional development, ensuring that its staff stays up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the field. 

SYNLAB’s R&D department is dedicated to delivering diagnostic excellence through continuous innovation. This includes: 

• Developing new technologies and digital interfaces to improve access to services.
• Making significant contributions to the scientific community, with over 300 annual publications and active research projects in emerging fields.
• Strategic collaborations with universities, research centers, and leading global institutions.

Applicability of Innovation Tests and Contribution to SYNLAB’s Portfolio 

• Personalized treatment: Innovative tests enable healthcare professionals to tailor treatments based on patients’ genetic or biomolecular characteristics, increasing efficacy and reducing side effects. An example is the use of pharmacogenetics panels, which guide drug selection and dosing.
• Early detection and prevention: These tests often focus on biomarkers that can indicate diseases at early stages, enabling timely interventions and better prognoses, contributing to preventive health.
• Improved care quality: With faster and more accurate diagnostics, physicians can make informed decisions in less time, enhancing the quality and agility of patient care.

What is technology applied to health? 

Technology applied to health refers to the use of technological tools to improve the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of diseases. This includes everything from advanced medical equipment to digital platforms for clinical information management. 

Personalized treatment is another key feature, with tests like the Global PGx and Neuro PGx pharmacogenetics panels, which assess genetic variants associated with drug metabolism. These laboratory tests support the selection of more effective therapies, reduce adverse effects in patients with neurological and psychiatric conditions, and optimize treatments in cases of polypharmacy. 

What is the Relationship Between Technology and Medicine? 

Technology and medicine are deeply interconnected, with the former providing essential tools for the evolution of the latter. For instance, technologies such as robotic surgery and MRI scanners have transformed medical procedures and diagnostics.

Technology plays a vital role in healthcare by: 

• Improving diagnostic accuracy and reducing medical errors.
• Increasing accessibility to care, especially in remote areas.
• Optimizing time and resources within healthcare systems.
• Prolonging life expectancy and enhancing patients’ quality of life.

The impact is evident in several aspects, such as: 

• Process automation: Enhancing efficiency and reducing costs.
• Medical decision support: AI assisting physicians with complex diagnostics.
• Education: Virtual reality for training healthcare professionals.

Moreover, technology has brought significant advances, including faster and more accurate diagnostics, reduced surgical complications and mortality rates, wider access to innovative treatments, and remote monitoring, allowing continuous care for chronic patients. 

Recent Advances 

Among recent highlights, SYNLAB introduced over 80 tests in 2024, including 48 in molecular genetics and 32 in specialized analyses. These new tests feature tools for diagnosing complex conditions, such as the genetic panel for oncological diseases and the gut microbiome test using shotgun technology, enabling detailed microbial functionality analysis. 

Expanded Expertise and Multidisciplinary Collaboration 

By incorporating innovative tests, SYNLAB expands its expertise through collaboration with specialists in fields like genetics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics. This interdisciplinarity not only enriches internal knowledge but also fosters partnerships with academic and research institutions, broadening access to knowledge networks and advancing scientific development. 

The continuous implementation of new technologies demands ongoing training for our team, strengthening technical expertise and fostering a culture of continuous learning. This positions us at the forefront of the diagnostics sector and underscores our commitment to delivering the best in healthcare. 

SYNLAB not only adopts innovative tests to enhance diagnostics but also invests in research and development to drive modern medicine’s evolution. Our market position and strong reputation enable us to attract and retain top talent, creating an extensive network of specialists. 

With over 300 annual scientific publications and our own research institute (IRCCS SDN SYNLAB in Naples, Italy), we lead the industry in research activity. Through the SYNLAB Medical Innovation Awards and our Research Grants program, we encourage innovation and collaboration with global institutions. 

Our entrepreneurial approach, coupled with a culture of continuous improvement, enables SYNLAB to bring technology and innovation to meet customer needs, even in remote locations. By combining our global operational scale with scientific expertise, we deliver diagnostics at the forefront of medicine, reinforcing our commitment to patients’ health and well-being. 

SYNLAB’s Global Impact and Excellence Programs 

SYNLAB’s global impact is reflected in initiatives such as the contract with the NHS in the UK and international partnerships promoting public health. Additionally, the SYNLAB Medical Innovation Awards celebrate scientific advances in areas like oncology, women’s health, and diagnostic innovation, highlighting discoveries such as biomarkers in pediatric leukemia and new insights into embryonic development genetics. 

The Future of Diagnostic Research 

With a robust infrastructure and strategic partnerships, SYNLAB remains a leader in diagnostic innovation. Its research institute in Italy, recognized as IRCCS, exemplifies its dedication to translating basic science into clinical advancements with a direct impact on patient health. 

Discover the SYNLAB Group, a reference in medical diagnostic services! 

Accurate and up-to-date testing is essential for more assertive diagnoses and better treatment guidance. SYNLAB is here to support you. 

We provide diagnostic solutions with rigorous quality control to the companies, patients, and doctors we serve. Present in Brazil for over 10 years, we operate in 36 countries across three continents and are leaders in service provision in Europe. 

Contact the SYNLAB team and discover the available tests. 

References 

1. West MA. The social psychology of innovation in groups. In: West MA, Farr JL, editors. Innovation and creativity at work: psychological and organizational strategies. Chichester: Wiley; 1990. p. 309-34.

2. Omachonu VK, Einspruch NG. Inovação nos sistemas de atenção à saúde: quadro conceitual. The Innovation Journal: The Public Sector Innovation Journal 2010; 15:1-20.