European clinical research for preparedness gets a new tool: the Central Data Repository of studies targeting infectious diseases with epidemic and pandemic potential
Today marks the launch of the Central Data Repository (CDR), the online database designed to support research pandemic preparedness efforts across Europe. Managed by the Cohort Coordination Board, the CDR offers a comprehensive collection of metadata from cohorts and trials across Europe focusing on infectious diseases with epidemic and pandemic potential. This resource is now publicly accessible and is committed to supporting data sharing and coordination in the fight against emerging health threats.
Why Was the CDR Created?
The CDR, a collaborative effort of the EU-funded projects VERDI (GA-101045989) and CoMeCT (GA-101136531), addresses the urgent need for efficient data management in the face of evolving infectious disease challenges. By providing an overview of recent and ongoing randomised clinical trials (RCTs) and cohort studies, the CDR aims to minimise research duplication and accelerate the identification of key research infrastructures across Europe.
What Studies Are in the CDR?
Currently, the CDR features clinical research studies in Europe targeting infectious diseases that are considered emerging threats:
- SARS-CoV-2 acute infection (treatment)
- Post-COVID-19 syndrome (natural history, treatment)
- Mpox (natural history, treatment, and vaccination)
- Avian influenza A(H5N1) (treatment and vaccination)
It features cohort studies, RCTs, and adaptive platform trials relevant to these areas. What Information Does the CDR Provide? The CDR has three main sections:
- Interactive Filters: For customising searches.
- A Map of Europe: Showing study counts by country.
- Study List: A detailed list based on selected filters.
Each study has a Study Identity Card with details such as name, design, participant numbers, enrolment dates, locations, population, setting, pathogen, disease, and biobanked samples.
How Is the CDR’s Data Collected?
The CoMeCT Exploration Working Group has been instrumental in the identification and collection of the cohort studies, RCTs, and adaptive platform trials. Information is gathered from public sources such as PubMed, Scopus, ECRIN, and ClinicalTrials.gov, as well as through contacts with Cohort Coordination Board members, the VERDI and COMECT networks, and other researchers.
An AI-supported tool, overseen by infectious disease specialists, screens studies. Metadata comes from principal investigators or public sources via automated and semi-automated methods.
Planned New Features
- Development of a second module with data dictionaries for studies.
- Inclusion of sexually transmitted diseases like Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia spp., and Treponema pallidum (syphilis).
- A syndromic approach for conditions such as influenza-like illnesses to aid site identification.
- A catalogue of aligned variables to help match datasets.
These additions aim to expand the utility of the CDR for its users. Call for Collaboration: Researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals are invited to explore the CDR here. The Cohort Coordination Board encourages collaboration, including data contributions, entry amendments, and project partnerships.
Contact details: ccb@ateneo.univr.it
About the Cohort Coordination Board
The Cohort Coordination Board is dedicated to fostering collaboration and data sharing in clinical research, particularly in the field of infectious diseases. The Board is committed to providing researchers with the resources and tools necessary to address public health emergencies effectively. We would like to acknowledge La Tempesta for their incredible technical support in developing the Central Data Repository.