NMD4C Launch Canadian Neuromuscular Clinical Trial Network
The Neuromuscular Disease Network for Canada is thrilled to announce the launch of a Canadian neuromuscular clinical trial network (CTN) as a part of our clinical research work. Led by investigators Dr. Craig Campbell, Dr. Jean Mah, and Dr. Kerri Schellenberg, the CTN will work towards increasing the number of neuromuscular clinical trials conducted in Canada, enhancing Canadian neuromuscular trial capacity, and supporting a cohesive network of clinician researchers and their teams.
Increasing the number of neuromuscular clinical trials conducted in Canada
The CTN will facilitate connections between industry and clinical sites to support the activation of new clinical trials or the opening of new clinical trial sites. We will deliver information about upcoming neuromuscular trial opportunities and offer information on existing trials available and implement strategic promotion to increase international visibility of the benefits of conducting neuromuscular clinical trials in Canada.
Enhancing trial capacity
The CTN will offer education and training programs to clinicians and their teams to improve clinical trial execution, connect with existing patient organizations to increase opportunities for patients to participate in neuromuscular clinical trials, and gather patient feedback from patient organizations and clinical sites to advance the development of patient-centric clinical trials.
Supporting a network of clinician researchers and their teams
The CTN will facilitate peer-to-peer mentorship opportunities among trialists specializing in neuromuscular clinical trials, coordinate a pan-Canadian hub for trialists and their teams to discuss clinical trial experiences, and launch a Canada-wide community of practice program for clinical trial coordinators overseeing neuromuscular clinical trials.
The CTN leadership group will be supported by Maria Masnata, our new clinical trials and community of practice manager. Learn more about the CTN mission and objectives, or contact Maria Masnata for more information!
Read next...
New Publication from the NMD4C Clinical Trial Network Strengthens Trial Capacity in Canada
We are pleased to share a new publication from the NMD4C Clinical Trial Network led by Kerri Lynn Schellenberg, Homira Osman, Maria Masnata, Rhiannon Hicks, Corinne Kagan, Ana Stosic, Stacey Lintern, Erin Beattie, Drs. Hanns Lochmüller, Craig Campbell, and Jean K Mah. This work focuses on the implementation of a coordinated Canadian neuromuscular clinical trial network to enhance trial readiness, capacity, and access in rare disease research.
Canadian-Led Phase II Studies Advance Vamorolone Evidence in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
NMD4C investigators contributed to two phase II studies evaluating vamorolone in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy across early childhood and adolescence, demonstrating safety, favorable pharmacokinetics, and potential efficacy. Led by Dr. Jean Mah and conducted across Canadian clinical trial sites with national and industry collaborators, the findings supported Health Canada approval of vamorolone as the first treatment for DMD in Canada. Leaders from both the clinical and patient advocacy communities, including Defeat Duchenne Canada, highlighted the impact of collaboration among patients, families, clinicians, and researchers in advancing care and improving access to new therapies.
Advancing AFC in Neuromuscular Medicine: Program Launch & September Workshop
The Royal College has approved National Training Standards for the AFC in Neuromuscular Medicine, creating a formal pathway to recognize enhanced competence with the DRCPSC credential. This designation establishes a national training standard, supports portable certification, and strengthens clinical capacity across Canada. PGME offices can now apply to offer accredited AFC programs, with a goal of five programs submitting applications by the end of 2026.