Clinical trials to accelerate research into treating chronic
kidney disease will be strengthened as a result of a new
partnership between the Scottish Government, academia and
industry.
NHS Scotland, AstraZeneca and the Universities of
Dundee and Glasgow will work together on new medicines to
slow the progression of chronic kidney disease, reducing the risk
that patients might need dialysis or kidney transplantation.
The partnership will allow for development of new treatments to
treat chronic kidney disease, build infrastructure and enhance
expertise in renal clinical trial delivery in Scotland with the
key aim of improving patient outcomes.
Preventing progression of the disease allows people to live
longer, better lives, free from other consequences of the
condition such as heart failure, cardiovascular disease and
stroke. This allows people to work, contribute to their
communities and economy, while reducing pressure on the NHS.
Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, , said:
“This project's ‘triple helix' approach is a shining example of
how collaboration between the NHS, Scottish Government, academia
and industry can accelerate health studies. As we navigate the
complex issue of chronic kidney disease, our commitment to
patient-centred research remains unwavering.
“Together we can advance targeted studies into medicines that
slow progression of the disease and reduce the need for dialysis
or transplantation, strengthen our workforce through dedicated
research fellows and specialised training, provide greater
opportunities for patients, and enable Scotland to attract and
deliver more innovative trials.”
Professor Dame Anna Dominiczak, Chief Scientist (Health) at
Scottish Government said:
“I welcome this partnership with AstraZeneca which builds upon
the excellent research infrastructure and expertise we have in
Scotland, to drive the development of new treatments for chronic
kidney disease. We must all work together to improve the outcomes
and life circumstances for people living with kidney disease; and
this partnership enables the fusion of medical expertise,
knowledge, and insight from across NHS, academia, and industry.”
Tom Keith-Roach, AstraZeneca UK President, said:
"Scotland is setting a bold ambition to change the trajectory of
chronic kidney disease. We are thrilled to invest in a
partnership with the University of Glasgow, the University of
Dundee, and the Scottish Government to speed up the study of
three potential new combination medicines to treat this disease.
The triple helix of industry, academia and NHS Scotland is a
powerful force with the potential to transform care and outcomes
for people. Furthermore, we believe Scotland is well placed to
collaborate with AstraZeneca to shape our research on the world
stage across a number of disease areas and attract investment to
the country's thriving Life Science sector."
