Through studies, tests, and clinical trials, scientists can better understand medical conditions and find more effective ways to treat and prevent acute diseases and chronic illnesses. In this way, clinical research allows scientists to tackle medical challenges that impact countless lives worldwide.
Every year, clinical research breakthroughs make it easier for people to lead happier and healthier lives. Let’s look at some of the most exciting breakthroughs this year.
In early 2024, the FDA approved Amtagvi, the first cellular therapy available for the treatment of metastatic melanoma. This treatment option is available to people who have advanced melanoma that has not responded to PD-1 inhibitors or to drugs that target the BRAF gene.
Amtagvi is an autologous T cell immunotherapy derived from tumors. A portion of a patient’s tumor is removed, and the T cells are separated, processed, and reintroduced into the patient. In the current clinical trials, the treatment has helped to slow and even stop the cancer’s progression.
Parkinson’s is a debilitating nervous system disorder that impacts millions of people around the world. A study demonstrated the potential of using lixisenatide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, to slow down the progression of the disease.
Lixisenatide is a drug used mainly for the treatment of diabetes. It mimics a hormone found in the gut, and researchers now believe that it may also offer neuroprotective effects. In the study, patients taking lixisenatide experienced no worsening movement symptoms for as long as a year after receiving the drug.
Although it is the first trial and there is still a long process ahead, lixisenatide may be one of the most promising clinical research breakthroughs for people battling Parkinson’s disease.
The first-ever CRISPR gene-editing therapy for the treatment of sickle cell disease has been approved. Called Casgevy, this therapy modifies a patient’s hematopoietic stem cells. These edited cells cause an increase in the level of fetal hemoglobin, which carries oxygen more efficiently than adult cells.
In clinical trials, 94.1% of participating patients went 12 consecutive months without experiencing a vaso-occlusive crisis. This clinical research breakthrough offers hope for those who suffer from genetic diseases as researchers explore how to apply a similar approach to other illnesses.
Another of the most important clinical research breakthroughs this year is the development of a CAR T cell treatment for glioblastoma, which is the most dangerous type of brain tumor. In this approach, scientists combine CAR T cells and specific antibodies called T-cell-engaging antibody molecules.
Patients who received this treatment experienced a significant tumor reduction in just a few days. Although more studies need to be conducted to determine long-term effectiveness, the goal is to combine this treatment with chemotherapy to extend patients’ lives.
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune and neurological disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers throughout the central nervous system. Now, a recent study has revealed a potential marker that could help detect this condition early, making interventions possible.
The research focused on autoantibodies that scientists found in about 10% of people who went on to develop multiple sclerosis. Autoantibodies are antibodies that turn against one’s own body instead of fighting off invaders. These autoantibodies were already in the patients’ blood serum years before symptoms began.
Scientists showed that hidden signs of multiple sclerosis can be present long before symptoms begin. This breakthrough opens the door for the future development of antigen-specific biomarkers that could allow for fast and early intervention.
Many of the medical advancements that have allowed people to live longer and healthier lives are the result of clinical research breakthroughs. These medical advancements happen when scientists carry out studies to test new medications and treatments in controlled settings.
At Orlando Clinical Research Center, we’re dedicated to the advancement of medicine and science, conducting Phase I–IV trials in our state-of-the-art research facilities in central Florida.
Whether you would like to participate in one of our current studies or would like more information about our facility, contact us today to learn more.
