Empowering Diversity in Drug Development
Ancestry matters: Building inclusivity into preclinical study design
The Black Lives Matter movement catalyzed sweeping changes in the medical field, prompting pharmaceutical companies to make ambitious commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). New federal legislation now also mandates increased representation in clinical trials. These efforts, while laudable, focus on the visible stages of drug development. But an invisible, more systemic issue is lurking in the laboratories where drug discovery begins.
How did a field dedicated to understanding human biology lose sight of the fundamental aspect: human diversity? Why is it important to acknowledge ancestry in preclinical drug development? What is needed to change the course of action?
[read more…]
As I see sweat-glistened bodies of all shades pump iron at my local California gym, a profound question emerges: could the very pigment that gives our skin its diverse hues and UV protection, also impact how medications work in our bodies?
This seemingly simple question opened the door to a fascinating exploration uncovering:
melanin's unexpected role as a drug "sponge,"
the need for more inclusive FDA guidelines, and
the potential of cutting-edge 3D skin models that make equitable (pre)clinical drug development feasible…
[read more…]
How Your Skin Tone Could Be Affecting Your Meds
Opinion
In drug development, diversity must be extended to preclinical research
The pharmaceutical industry has long operated on a one-size-fits-all model, developing drugs primarily tested on, and thus best suited for, people of European descent.
This approach ignores — and potentially harms — the billions of people of color on the planet.
Lack of diversity occurs at all levels of the pharmaceutical ecosystem, from the makeup of C-suite and research staffs to participation in clinical trials. It even extends to preclinical research. […]
Check out the STATnews article.
My Mission
Championing inclusivity from the earliest stages of research.
My goal
Support development of safer and more effective treatments for all populations.
Why Inclusive (Pre)clinical R&D Matters
Enhance Efficacy
Optimize drug dosing to individual needs
Mitigate Risks
Prevent unexpected late-stage clinical trial efficacy and safety issues before they arise.
Promote Health Equity:
Champion ethical drug development, placing all patient groups at the heart of biomedical research.
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