Takeda and Janssen are collaborating with ActiGraph, a wearable device maker, to validate a digital measure that quantifies disruptive nighttime scratching in individuals with skin conditions such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. The goal is to establish nocturnal scratching as a measurable endpoint for clinical trials evaluating new treatments.
Quantifying Nocturnal Scratch
Nocturnal scratching is a significant issue for individuals with dermatological conditions, often disrupting sleep and diminishing overall quality of life. Current methods for assessing scratching are largely subjective, relying on patient recall or observational studies, which can be inconsistent and difficult to quantify accurately. The collaboration between Takeda, Janssen, and ActiGraph seeks to address this limitation by developing a more objective and reliable measure.
ActiGraph's Role
ActiGraph specializes in wearable devices and software solutions for activity monitoring and sleep analysis. Their technology is designed to capture movement data over extended periods, providing a detailed picture of a patient's activity patterns. By leveraging ActiGraph's technology, the collaboration aims to develop a validated measure of nocturnal scratching that can be used in clinical trials to assess the efficacy of new drugs targeting skin conditions.
Potential Impact on Clinical Trials
The establishment of a reliable and quantifiable measure of nocturnal scratching could significantly impact the design and execution of clinical trials for psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and other dermatological conditions. It would provide researchers with a more objective endpoint for assessing treatment efficacy, potentially leading to more efficient drug development and improved patient outcomes. The ability to accurately measure and track changes in nocturnal scratching could also help clinicians better understand the impact of these conditions on patients' lives and tailor treatment plans accordingly.
