James L. Sorensen, PhD (University of California San Francisco, CA/AZ Node), Susan Tross, PhD (New York State Psychiatric Institute, LI Node), Raul Mandler, MD (Center for the Clinical Trials Network, NIDA).

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In addition to the studies underway, CTN participants are planning multi-site clinical trials with emerging results that address HIV/AIDS. The CTN has a HIV/AIDS Special Interest Group (SIG) that meets regularly to discuss study ideas and policy approaches. The SIG provides a supportive place to discuss HIV research related to the CTN, share information with each other about opportunities and developments, promote AIDS ideas and research in the CTN, and link CTN research with the AIDS Research Office of NIDA. The SIG periodically reviews and prioritizes study ideas before they work their way up the organizational hierarchy, and, in the latest CTN Call for Concepts, had developed approximately ten suggestions for HIV-related research studies.

Several studies using the CTN “platform” have also been fielded with external resources. The term “platform study” describes extramurally funded research that builds on the CTN infrastructure. Studies can add a dimension to a CTN trial, test an intervention by using the infrastructure of the CTN, focus on CTN programs to understand an issue, include CTN programs in data collection, or provide training or career development in the CTN. Extramurally funded platform studies are addressing such issues as models of care for HIV and hepatitis, integrating medical treatment with addiction treatment, and improving adherence to HIV medications. (Presentation, PowerPoint slides, English, 2007)

Keywords: CTN protocol development | CTN research agenda | HIV/AIDS | HIV/AIDS Special Interest Group (SIG) | Research design | Sexually transmitted diseases | American Psychological Association (APA) annual convention, 2007

Document No: 232

Submitted by James L. Sorensen, PhD, CA/AZ Node.