Seminar looks for ways to improve clinical trials

A seminar was held in Beijing recently to foster communication, promote public awareness and drive innovation in the life sciences ahead of the 19th International Clinical Trials Day on Saturday.

The seminar, titled "Crossing the Boundaries of Trials", proved to be a significant step toward improving patient outcomes.

China's clinical trials are being polished to align with global standards, focusing on standardization, regulation, and internationalization. Notably, China has registered over 43,000 drug clinical trials, ranking second globally and representing over 20 percent of the total trials registered worldwide, according to ClinicalTrials.gov.

Lin Ningjing, chief physician of the lymphoma department at Peking University Cancer Hospital, said clinical trials — practiced with informed consent from volunteers — always put safety as the top priority and provide new hope for survival for terminally ill cancer patients.

The hospital, a renowned tertiary cancer specialty hospital in Beijing, has emerged as a leading institution in the diagnosis, treatment and research of various cancers.

"We look forward to having more rigorously designed clinical studies that will benefit a greater number of patients. Our sponsors, researchers and other professionals involved in clinical trials, including third-party cancer research companies, are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring high-quality clinical research, which requires a strong level of expertise," she said.

Zhang Peilong, chief technology officer of Avistone Pharmaceuticals, a clinical-stage biotechnology company in Beijing, said the quality of clinical trials comes from design, so in the design phase they have to find unmet therapeutic needs and then develop differentiated products to fill the needs of the patients in that area.

Hu Jingyi, vice-president of clinical development and medical affairs for HEXAELL Biotech, added that China's innovative drugs are also gradually going global, and globalization is often part of the strategic development of major pharmaceutical companies.

Cui Tianhong, founder and chairman of Qihuang CRO, underscored China's rapid progress in the field. The effective communication between industry stakeholders and the Center for Drug Evaluation, the establishment of dedicated registration pathways for traditional Chinese medicine and a focus on expanding indications beyond traditional approaches were identified as key contributors to the advancement of TCM drug development.

Recognizing the pivotal role played by CROs in drug development, the seminar highlighted the need for a standardized and internationally oriented talent system within the Chinese CRO industry.

As China's pharmaceutical sector continues to see a surge in innovative enterprises, there is a growing demand for professionals equipped with comprehensive knowledge, skills, and specialized expertise. Talent development in this field should emphasize practical experience, industry understanding and adaptability to evolving concepts, technology, compliant processes, streamlined operations and data-driven management, Cui said.

The seminar served as a timely reminder of the significant impact of clinical trials on medical research and patient care. International Clinical Trials Day provides an opportunity for stakeholders to exchange knowledge, enhance public awareness and drive innovation.

With a robust talent system, a focus on innovative products and high-quality CRO services, China's clinical trial is poised to bridge the gap with global leaders, leveraging its strengths, such as the country's vast patient pool, esteemed research institutions and favorable policies.