Clinical Trials
A clinical trial is a specific type of clinical research involving human volunteers focused on evaluating the effectiveness and safety of medical and surgical treatments. Explore the resources below to learn more about how clinical trials work and why they are so important for the advancement of health care.
Dr. Emil Kakkis: Developing Novel Treatments for Rare Disorders and Connecting With Patients as Critical Partners in Research
WCG Institute Podcast
“In this episode, WCG’s President of Patient Advocacy, Steve Smith, talks with Emil Kakkis, MD, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of Ultragenyx Pharmaceuticals and President of the non-profit EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases organization. Known for his work in developing an enzyme replacement therapy for the rare disorder MPS I and his connection to the Ryan Foundation, Dr. Kakkis shares with us his experiences in being involved in bringing drugs to market and forming relationships with patients along the way.”
Understanding Clinical Trials
Animated Pancreas Patient
“This animation explains what clinical trials are, how they are conducted, and why they are important for patients with diseases like pancreatic cancer. The animation also provides an overview of study design, eligibility criteria, informed consent, safeguards, different phases of clinical trials, and the potential benefits and potential risks of participation.”
The Clinical Trial Journey
Mayo Clinic
“Patients are waiting. That is what motivates Mayo Clinic’s researchers in their quest for better treatments and cures. Clinical trials bridge the gap between research and patient care, and help a discovery become a therapy. The clinical trial journey is how a medical intervention — such as a drug, device, or procedure — moves from an idea into patient care. From the lab to research with the help of volunteers and through review and approval for use, this animation will help you understand the biomedical research pipeline.”