ERT Acquires APDM With Goal of Better Data for Movement Disorder Trials

ERT, which specializes in clinical trial data collection, announced it has acquired APDM Wearable Technologies (APDM), a provider of wearables and digital biomarkers, to improve the accuracy of key efficacy measures used in clinical studies of multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s, and other movement disorders.

A goal is to remove subjectivity from trial assessments by generating the quality data necessary to make clinical trials  more efficient, predictable, and cost-effective, ERT stated in a press release.

This will be achieved through use of APDM’s wearable platform, which allows trial investigators to gather accurate data on patient motion via its medical-grade wearable sensors and digital endpoints, and ERT’s eCOA platform, which allows researchers to capture quality information from patient-reported outcomes.

Combining both platforms better ensures more powerful safety and efficacy data in trials of potential treatments, the release states. These data can also guide the development of new treatments for movement disorders associated with central nervous system (CNS) impairments, including MS, Parkinson’s, and ataxia.

The central nervous system, composed of the brain and spinal cord, is responsible for coordinating most body functions, including movements, awareness, memory, and thought processes.

“We are thrilled that our advanced wearable platform will be added to ERT’s suite of proven eClinical technologies to help innovative clinical trial sponsors minimize uncertainty and risk in the development of CNS and movement disorder treatments, ultimately improving patients’ lives,” said Mateo Aboy, co-founder and chairman of APDM.

This integrated solution will be available to support both onsite clinical studies and those being carried out virtually.

“To truly understand a new drug’s effect on movement disorders, sponsors need objective, real-world data that can only be captured by a medical-grade precision motion device and combined with traditional clinical endpoints for a complete view on efficacy,” James Corrigan, president and CEO of ERT, said.

“APDM’s advanced technology … complements ERT’s expertise in high-quality clinical trial data collection, delivering the most efficient and effective approach for trial sponsors,” Corrigan added.