Commercially sponsored trials now represent nearly 80% of all UK ATMP clinical trials, demonstrating the attractiveness of the UK’s ecosystem and ATTC network to industryPhase 1 trials increased by 32% in 2021, representing a considerable transition of advanced therapies into first-in-human trialsReport further demonstrates the UK’s leading position as a thriving hub for advanced clinical research
London, 22nd March 2022: The Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult (CGT Catapult) today published the 2021 Advanced Therapy Medicinal Product (ATMP) clinical trials database and report, which highlights the continued growth in the number and progress of ATMP clinical trials being conducted across the UK.
The report published today shows that there were 168 ATMP clinical trials running in the UK in 2021, representing a 9% increase on the previous year, with commercially sponsored trials accounting for nearly 80% of ATMP trials. This continued increase in activity demonstrates the UK’s leading position as an internationally recognised hub for advanced clinical research, as the UK now represents 9% of all global ATMP trials and 12% of all commercial trials (Ph I-III). In addition, there was a continued growth in the translation of advanced therapies into first-in-human trials, with a 32% increase seen in 2021, highlighting the expanding UK ATMP space and the successful transition of ATMP’s into clinical trials.
The Advanced Therapy Treatment Centres network (ATTC), which the CGT Catapult coordinates, has grown into a significant mechanism for the ATMP industry, with 55% of UK ATMP clinical trials run via the dedicated network.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on society, industry and healthcare across the globe. The full extent of the impact on clinical trials is not fully understood, as the MHRA does not require notifications of interruptions to trials due to COVID-19. The report published today shows that fewer trials were completed in 2021 compared to 2020, indicating that some ongoing trials are suspended. However, an increase in trials initiated in 2021 compared with previous years, despite the pandemic, suggests that there is continued interest in conducting clinical trials for ATMPs in the UK.
Matthew Durdy, CEO of CGT Catapult, said:
“The rising and sustained commercial investment in UK ATMP clinical trials showcases the incredible strength and dynamism of the UK ATMP industry, driven in part by the dedicated ATTC network. It is clear that the recognition of the UK’s world leading clinical space for ATMPs is continuing to grow internationally, attracting investment in trials. This is a testament to the ongoing support of the UK Government and the industry.”
The ATTC network, funded by the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund, successfully supports the development of the UK infrastructure for clinical adoption of ATMPs. The ATTC network has built, and continues to build, systems within the NHS to ensure that products progress effectively through clinical development and can be commercialised in the UK to reach patients in need.
Find the full Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult 2021 ATMP clinical trials database report here
About Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult
The Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult is an independent innovation and technology organisation committed to the advancement of cell and gene therapies with a vision of a thriving industry delivering life changing advanced therapies to the world. Its aim is to create powerful collaborations which overcome challenges to the advancement of the sector. With over 400 experts covering all aspects of advanced therapies, it applies its unique capabilities and assets, collaborates with academia, industry and healthcare providers to develop new technology and innovation. The Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult works with Innovate UK. For more information, please visit ct.catapult.org.uk or visit http://www.gov.uk/innovate-uk.
For further information please contact
FTI Consulting for the CGT Catapult:
George Kendrick +44 (0) 203 727 1411/ George.Kendrick@fticonsulting.com
Alexander Davis +44 (0) 203 727 1729 / Alexander.Davis@fticonsulting.com