January 24, 2022

Introducing Protas: a smarter approach to clinical trials, building on the success of the RECOVERY trial

Whilst global life-expectancy levels have improved in recent decades, the burden of common conditions on populations around the world continues to rise. Despite this trend, the development of treatments for the most common conditions (e.g. heart and lung disease, arthritis, depression and dementia) has dwindled. The economics for developing new treatments for these diseases are increasingly challenging and consequently, fewer therapies are being developed for the conditions that place the greatest burden on patients and the health systems which care for them.

By combining smart randomized trial design with effective technology and a collaborative approach Protas aims to encourage the development of better treatments for conditions such as heart and lung disease, arthritis, depression and dementia, and therefore improve public health outcomes. Put simply – delivering smarter trials for better health.

Protas will be led by Professor Sir Martin Landray and will build on the success of the landmark RECOVERY trial. Protas will be structured as an independent not-for-profit and will design and deliver smart randomized clinical trials through collaborations with charities, foundations, academic research teams and industry partners. Sanofi, the global biopharmaceutical firm, has been announced as the first Strategic Partner, which will include a commitment of up to £5 million to Protas.

Journalists dialled in to this briefing to hear how Protas aims to drastically reduce the cost of clinical trials and improve public health outcomes.

Speakers included:

Prof Sir Martin Landray, CEO Protas, Co-Principal Investigator for the RECOVERY trial & Professor of Medicine & Epidemiology, University of Oxford

Dr Lionel Bascles, Global Head of Clinical Sciences & Operations, Sanofi