The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is broadening its Indian Clinical Trial and Education Network (INTENT), comprising medical colleges and research institutes nationwide. The objective is to conduct large-scale, regulatory-compliant clinical trials addressing critical health issues.
Network Expansion:
- Currently encompassing 47 institutes, including public and private medical colleges, hospitals, and ICMR institutes, INTENT aims to enhance its reach and impact.
- ICMR invites expressions of interest from government and private medical research institutes, hospitals, and NGOs experienced in clinical trials to join the network.
Research Focus:
- INTENT facilitates comprehensive clinical trials for drugs, devices, vaccines, and biologics addressing national health priorities and rare genetic diseases.
- Research proposals with potential policy implications and collaborations with academia, start-ups, or industry bodies are encouraged.
Coordination and Support:
- Coordinated by ICMR’s clinical studies and trials unit in Delhi, INTENT provides end-to-end support for trial coordination, regulatory compliance, and study services.
- Selected centers gain priority as trial sites and may lead specific trials, with centralized support services including data management, insurance coverage, and regulatory advice.
Future Prospects:
- The expansion of INTENT signifies a concerted effort to foster evidence-based, culturally sensitive healthcare solutions for India’s health challenges.
- With a focus on collaboration and rigorous research, INTENT aims to influence health policies and advance medical knowledge nationally.
