If a researcher already has identified a promising approved or existing molecule through initial screening and validation, he or she may need help readying the agent for clinical testing. NCATS experts aid these investigators by supporting the development of regulatory-quality data packages, which enable the drug’s entry into clinical trials for the new disease indication.
NCATS provides support for these efforts through its Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) and Bridging Interventional Development Gaps (BrIDGs) programs, which give collaborative partners access to NCATS’ unique resources and drug development expertise. In addition, the Discovering New Therapeutic Uses for Existing Molecules (New Therapeutic Uses) program provides funding on a competitive basis to academic researchers who carry out repurposing projects using existing pharmaceutical industry agents.