Built for modern trials: How Sano supports advanced genomic therapies

The next generation of advanced therapies, particularly gene therapies, hold enormous promise for patients with rare conditions. However, their clinical development brings unique challenges: highly targeted patient populations, the need for precise genetic characterization, and complex eligibility requirements.

Sano was built to meet these demands. Our platform combines patient-first technology with clinical trial expertise to help sponsors accelerate recruitment, reduce risks, and deliver better experiences for patients and caregivers.

Effective and targeted patient-finding strategies

Identifying patients with specific genetic mutations is one of the biggest hurdles in rare disease trials. To help sponsors achieve ambitious recruitment targets, Sano builds customized strategies that blend digital outreach, partnerships with patient organizations, clinician engagement, and referral networks. Participants are guided through consent, pre-screening, and testing, and those meeting study criteria are seamlessly referred into trials.

Study highlight: In one program targeting a genetic form of hearing loss, we developed an awareness and patient-finding protocol across the US, UK, and Spain. In the US launch of the study, digital campaigns, advocacy group partnerships, and a streamlined referral process led to over 70% of participants completing pre-screeners, and nearly 90% meeting eligibility criteria. Many were referred for genetic testing and connected with relevant studies, while others opted into ongoing recontact for future research.

Integrated genetic testing

For gene therapies, eligibility depends on precise genetic or biomarker confirmation. Sano offers flexible solutions to make this step seamless for both participants and sites. Our platform is configured to support either a kits-at-site model—where Sano provides genetic testing kits directly to physicians and clinical sites, allowing parents or caregivers to collect samples with physician support—or an at-home model, enabling participants to collect samples conveniently without site visits.

These options are integrated with study protocols and paired with genetic counseling and personalized reporting, ensuring a patient-first experience while streamlining trial operations.

Study highlight: In a global study focused on a rare neuromuscular disorder, Sano developed a diagnostic testing strategy to identify individuals carrying disease-causing mutations. Our multi-channel recruitment included media campaigns, rare disease charity partnerships, and site-based outreach, paired with advanced sequencing for late-onset forms. This approach enabled timely identification of eligible patients and reduced recruitment risk for a pivotal gene therapy trial.

Decentralized and inclusive recruitment

Rare disease trials often require repeated site visits, which can limit enrollment and increase dropout. To reduce this burden, Sano provides digital consent tools, at-home sample collection, and remote follow-up. Families can also complete screening and testing at home before site visits, removing barriers to participation and capturing a broader pool of eligible patients.

Study highlight: In a study supporting an investigational therapy for a genetic form of dementia, Sano deployed at-home saliva collection, remote consent, and digital engagement tools across the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. Patients and caregivers received genetic results with counseling, and those meeting inclusion criteria were referred directly into clinical sites. Others were retained within the Virtual Waiting Room, ensuring continuity and readiness for future trials.

At-home antibody testing

Pre-existing immunity can derail enrollment in gene therapy trials, leading to delays and higher costs. Sano has introduced at-home antibody testing to screen participants early in the process. This allows larger and more diverse populations to be evaluated without requiring in-person site visits, making recruitment faster, more efficient, and more inclusive.

Patient-centered engagement

Retention is as important as recruitment. Sano’s Virtual Waiting Room provides tailored updates, educational content, SMS reminders, and direct communication channels with study teams. Genetic counseling and phone check-ins ensure participants feel supported and valued, reducing dropouts and maintaining trust.

This approach consistently outperforms industry benchmarks. Notably, 60% of participants remain engaged on the Sano platform long term, providing a reliable pool for recontact and follow-up. Furthermore, 65% of study-related emails are opened by Sano participants, compared with an industry average of just 21%.

Conclusion

Developing advanced therapies requires a new clinical model that is built around patients, enabled by technology, and capable of meeting the unique demands of precision medicine. From genotype-first recruitment to long-term engagement, Sano delivers an end-to-end solution for sponsors advancing the frontiers of genomic medicine.