The Digital Transformation of Modern Clinical Trials Forum in TMU
Source: Office of Human Research
Published on 2024-12-23
The “Regional Asian Clinical Trial Association” (REACTA) Forum returned to an on-site format after a three-year hiatus, taking place at TMU from August 2nd to 3rd, 2024.
Drawing over 300 participants, the forum underscoring its significance as a key platform for clinical trial innovation and collaboration.
REACTA, co-founded in 2013 by TMU alongside leading clinical research centers in Japan, South Korea, and Malaysia, has since expanded its activities to include Singapore and other nations. It’s mission is to establish a regional multi-center clinical trial platform, enhancing collaboration and development in the field.
This year’s theme, “From Ideation to Validation: Clinical Trials in the Digital Era,” highlighted the transformative impact of digital technology on clinical trials. During the COVID-19 pandemic, digital tools such as remote monitoring and data electronic informed consent integration became essential in maintaining trial continuity and patient care.

Shinsuke Muto, President of DCT Japan (left), and TMU President Dr. Mai-Szu Wu (right) deliver speeches sharing insights on medical challenges and future prospects.
The forum featured 16 speakers from the REACTA network, who shared insights on regional clinical trial advancements. Participants included clinical trial practitioners and representatives from companies and organizations like Acepodia, AstraZeneca, Bayer, MSD, Oneness Biotech, Syneos Health, the Taiwan Clinical Research Association and Center for Drug Evaluation, Taiwan. Topics ranged from improving trial efficiency to accelerating new drug development.
Digital tools, including wearable devices and AI, are reshaping how trials are conducted. Patients can now monitor their health at home using wearable devices, reducing the need for hospital visits. AI is being used to streamline processes such as participant selection, trial design, and data tracking, improving efficiency and precision of the implementation of clinical studies.
TMU showcased its in-house search systems, which are now applied in clinical trials to enhance accuracy and streamline operations in patient recruitment. These advancements highlight TMU’s commitment to integrating digital technologies in research, providing safer and more effective treatment options for patients worldwide.
The forum concluded with a collective commitment to raising the standards of clinical trials across Asia. TMU emphasized the importance of strengthening industry-academic collaborations to explore new possibilities in the digital age and advance healthcare innovation.

The forum featured 16 speakers from the REACTA network, who shared insights on regional clinical trial advancements.