Revive Therapeutics Ltd, a life sciences company focused on therapeutics for infectious diseases, has engaged Novotech, a clinical research organization (CRO) specializing in the Asia-Pacific region, to conduct human clinical trials for Bucillamine in the treatment of infectious diseases, including COVID-19. This collaboration aims to leverage Novotech's regional expertise to accelerate the development of Bucillamine as a potential therapeutic option for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.
Strategic Rationale
According to Michael Frank, Revive’s Chief Executive Officer, the partnership with Novotech is a key component of their global clinical strategy for Bucillamine. Novotech will assist in exploring the potential for a Phase 2 clinical study for Bucillamine in the APAC region. Novotech's established presence and capabilities in the region are expected to facilitate efficient trial execution and patient enrollment.
Asia-Pacific Clinical Trial Landscape
Despite the ongoing global COVID-19 crisis, many locations across Asia-Pacific, including Australia, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, have demonstrated effective management of the pandemic. Clinical trial sites in these regions have adapted to the situation by implementing updated health guidelines, allowing them to continue providing clinical trial services for biotechnology companies. Data indicates that site initiation, patient recruitment, onsite monitoring, and participant visits are proceeding normally across major biotech sites in South Korea and Taiwan.
Novotech's Expertise in Infectious Diseases
Novotech has a strong track record in conducting infectious disease trials, with over 200 projects completed in this area, including vaccines. The CRO's model emphasizes experienced local leadership and strong relationships with investigators and sites in the Asia-Pacific region. This approach benefits biotechnology companies by enabling them to accelerate clinical studies. The Asia-Pacific region is recognized for its accelerated patient enrolment, particularly in areas such as rare diseases, metabolic conditions, oncology, immuno-oncology, and infectious diseases, as well as its lower clinical research costs.
