Microdosing to play more important part in drug development

Published: 11-Feb-2009

Could be a solution to the problem of declining returns from investments in drug development


Microdosing or Phase 0 clinical testing could become an important part of the drug development process in the years to come and could be a solution to the problem of declining returns from investments in drug development, according to Frost & Sullivan (F&S).

The emergence of niche capability providers in preclinical testing and technology dependence could also lead to partnerships and alliances, fuelling growth opportunities in this sector, F&S said in its study, Strategic Analysis of Opportunities in the CRO Market - Phase 0, part of the Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology Growth Partnership Service programme.

Alliances between contract research organisations (CROs) in the US and Europe have not historically been common. F&S said this is due to several factors including the industry's strong growth and relatively low technology demands for clinical testing. However, developments in microdosing should see a number of opportunities being investigated.

F&S's senior research analyst V. Sriram commented: "CROs face the challenge of competitively aligning their services to meet customer needs in order to overcome the threat of losing their stronghold and loyalty."

Developing the technological expertise on niche capabilities, achieved in-house or by partnerships will help them retain their client base and allow for the creation of a one-stop shop solution, he added.

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