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Clinical research blog

Explore our blog for insights into the big questions in precision medicine and clinical research.

Webinar recap: International perspectives on genetic testing in ALS

This webinar, hosted by Paul Wicks and featuring a panel of experts in ALS and genetics, focuses on the challenges and variability in genetic testing and counselling for ALS. The experts highlight that while genetic testing is a critical component of ALS research and treatment, key challenges include making the test available to everyone who needs it and ensuring consistency among tests.

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A dozen powerful allies in clinical trial design and protocol development

The process of clinical trial design and protocol development is a multifaceted and often complex task, demanding an intricate understanding of various elements – from disease pathology and drug characteristics to patient demographics. Add the challenge of integrating genetic research and prioritising patient engagement, and it becomes a sophisticated puzzle. However, such complexity is the engine that drives the evolution of precision medicine. Today, we explore twelve companies shaping the landscape of precision medicine by applying unique approaches to overcome design and protocol development challenges.

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Webinar recap: Does the age of onset in SOD1-mediated ALS affect the speed of progression?

In this webinar, Dr. Sarah Opie-Martin and Dr. Paul Wicks discuss the latest research on SOD1 gene variants and their association with ALS. The webinar explores the implications of these findings for the diagnosis and treatment of ALS, and discusses potential avenues for future research.

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Navigating smooth clinical trials: Tips for pharma and biotech sponsors to avoid study rescue

Clinical trials play a crucial role in the development of pharmaceutical and biotech products. However, unforeseen challenges can arise during the trial process, potentially jeopardising the integrity and outcomes of the study. As a recent Applied Clinical Trial article noted, “while drug discovery is mostly about science, drug development is rich with, and risked by, human drama.”

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Data security and privacy considerations for the biotech industry

Data security and privacy are critical considerations in the biotech industry, especially for companies working in genetics.

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Unravelling the complexities of genomics-driven drug discovery [whitepaper]

Genomics-based drug discovery offers great potential for the development of targeted therapies that can offer new and better treatment options for patients. By utilising genetic and biomarker information, this approach allows us to gain insights into the fundamental causes of diseases. But this growing field is not without its challenges.

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Reflections from EASL: Genetic insights, potential treatments, and nomenclature transformations in liver disease

Last week, our team had the privilege of attending the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) conference, where groundbreaking advancements in liver research were unveiled. The conference provided an exceptional platform for experts and researchers to exchange knowledge and foster collaboration in the field of liver disease. In discussions with fellow conference-goers, our team identified several noteworthy themes emerging as key areas of interest. These included the pivotal role of genetics, particularly the PNPLA3 gene, in driving liver fibrosis in NAFLD/MASLD, the significance of AATD SERPINA 1 - PiZZ genotype pathogenicity, and the nomenclature change in NASH and MASH. Here, we will explore these developments, shedding light on the implications they hold for the future of liver disease research and patient care.

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Measuring and optimising clinical trials based on data: How to harness data for success

At Sano, we know that measuring and optimising data is the key to successful execution of clinical trials. That’s why we’ve put together a three-page report on key strategies to measure and optimise your data in a way that streamlines your operations. In it, we explore the significance of data collection and integration, real-time analytics, performance metrics, and predictive modelling in the world of clinical trials. Download below to learn more!

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Webinar recap: The Genetics of MASLD & MASH

This webinar, hosted by Lindsey Wahlstrom-Edwards, Partnerships Lead for Sano Genetics, and featuring Wayne Eskridge and Dr. Neeraj Mistry from the Fatty Liver Foundation, was an informative session on the genetics and lifestyle factors that contribute to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH).

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The value of patient engagement in clinical trials

Patient engagement has always been a cornerstone of successful clinical trials. It's a dynamic process that begins long before the trial and continues well after its conclusion. By fostering a strong relationship between researchers and patients, patient engagement can help improve enrollment, boost retention rates, improve the accuracy of data collected, and ensure the trial's overall success. This blog outlines the importance of patient engagement, then introduces the concept of a “Virtual Waiting Room” through which clinical trial sponsors can engage patients throughout the stages and phases of a study.

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