As 2025 unfolds, it carries forward the momentum of remarkable advancements transforming clinical trials. Clinical research is undergoing a renaissance, driven by a surge of groundbreaking innovations, collaborative efforts, and global inclusivity. These developments are not only shaping the methodologies and technologies used but also redefining the impact of clinical trials on public health outcomes.
From enhancing regulatory frameworks to leveraging emerging technologies, the clinical research landscape is experiencing a paradigm shift that promises to address long-standing challenges and unlock new opportunities. We are thrilled to delve into some of these transformative milestones with you.
Top 5: RER-CTO Project Elevates Clinical Trial Oversight
The RER-CTO project, launched in 2024, is a collaborative effort among experts from Ethiopia, Tanzania, Norway, and Sweden, aiming to enhance the regulatory and ethical oversight of clinical trials in Sub-Saharan Africa. With €1 million in funding, the project focuses on harmonizing policy frameworks and strengthening oversight capacities in Ethiopia and Tanzania
This initiative seeks to align regional practices with global standards, thereby improving the quality and safety of clinical trials conducted in the region. Learn more: Karolinska Institutet News
Top 4: SSA: The New Frontier for Clinical Research—IAS Driving Breakthroughs
Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is emerging as a vital player in global clinical trials, thanks to its genomic diversity, which has untapped potential. However, challenges such as limited infrastructure, regulatory hurdles, and skill shortages persist. The Impact Africa Summit (IAS), hosted by Xcene Research, aims to address these challenges by bringing together key stakeholders from the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. The summit emphasizes the importance of education, regulatory harmonization, and fostering partnerships to strengthen Africa’s role in clinical research. By leveraging these opportunities, SSA can drive healthcare innovation, bridge equity gaps, and enhance patient outcomes. Discover more: Visit Impact Africa Summit and subscribe to the newsletter.
Top 3: Interventional Studies on the Rise in Sub-Saharan Africa
Interventional Phase I–III studies are gaining momentum in Sub-Saharan Africa, driven by improved healthcare infrastructure and the development of targeted therapies. These studies address critical health challenges and position the region as a key contributor to global health solutions. Scaling up clinical research in Africa can benefit society and the economy by providing early access to cutting-edge treatments, improving health outcomes, and strengthening healthcare systems. However, as of 2023, only 4% of global clinical trials were hosted by African countries, indicating significant room for growth. Further reading: World Economic Forum
Top 2: Integrated Knowledge Translation Boosts Decision-Making
A study conducted across five African countries highlighted that integrated knowledge translation fosters stronger partnerships between researchers and decision-makers. Despite organizational limitations, this approach has shown promising improvements in evidence-informed policy-making and a mutual understanding of health issues. By involving decision-makers throughout the research process, the relevance and application of research findings are enhanced, leading to more effective health policies and interventions. Explore more: Health Policy and Systems Research
Top 1: Fingerprint Drug Screening Nears FDA Approval
Intelligent Bio Solutions has developed a revolutionary drug detection technology that analyzes fingerprint sweat, providing results comparable to blood samples. The company has commenced subject dosing and sampling activities as part of an FDA 510(k) pharmacokinetic study, a crucial step toward regulatory approval. This innovation is poised to redefine drug testing across industries such as law enforcement and forensics, offering a non-invasive, rapid, and reliable method for substance detection.
Read the latest updates: Clinical Trials Arena
