University of Aberdeen

Gut microbiome clinical trials face challenges like individual variability, strain-specific effects, and stringent regulatory standards. EFSA approval requires precise research questions, robust data, and well-structured experiments. Academic and regulatory expectations conflict, hindering progress. Good science demands rigor, transparency, and collaborative efforts. Effective consumer communication is essential, with alternative research methods proposed to assess health benefits.

CHaRT and ACE teams collaborated with the University of Edinburgh for the 2024 Edinburgh Clinical Trial Management Course. Attendees, including PhD researchers and trial managers, found the course insightful, educational, and inspiring, with key highlights being Prof. Derek Stewart's talk on patient involvement and Prof. Louise Bowman's session on trial monitoring efficiency.

Recent therapy advances represent incremental improvements, raising prioritization and funding challenges. Novelty alone no longer guarantees reimbursement; new medicines must demonstrate significant clinical advances. Comparative efficacy and clear value propositions are crucial, though value perspectives vary among stakeholders.

Drugs increasing vitamin A may help treat motor neurone disease (MND), according to Scottish research. These drugs target cells activating vitamin A, potentially slowing brain deterioration. Early signs include muscle twitches, weak grip, and slurred speech. There's no cure, but treatments aim to reduce impact. The study, published in Frontiers in Neuroscience, suggests new drug targets for future therapies.

Global prostate cancer cases expected to nearly double by 2040, prompting urgent need for cheaper, faster, and more accurate screening tests. The Lancet Commission calls for improved early detection, AI-driven diagnostics, and targeted outreach programs, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

UKRI India and the Government of India have jointly funded £19.4 million for research in farmed animal diseases, understanding geohazards, and sustainable materials. The collaboration includes projects led by UK and Indian researchers, focusing on improving farmed animal health, understanding geohazards, and developing sustainable industrial practices.