Lokavant rolls out “causal AI” based study feasibility tool

Clinical intelligence firm Lokavant has released an AI-based clinical trial forecasting technology it claims will help sponsors identify the best site and country combinations for their drug study programmes.

The system – called Spectrum v15 – uses a combination of AI models trained on a data set of 500,000 trials to predict the probability of achieving key last-patient-in targets.

CEO Rohit Nambisan said accurately assessing trial feasibility is critical, explaining “As an industry experiencing unprecedented volatility, there is a great need to quantify uncertainty while identifying reliable paths to study enrolment success.

“Spectrum analyzes country approval timelines, site activations, indication, and enrolment rates, leveraging the most advanced models to quantify levels of uncertainty with each forecast and each new variable.

This was echoed by Jonathan Crowther, Pfizer head of predictive analytics, who said, “we must move beyond static feasibility assumptions toward dynamic, data-driven adaptability. Solutions like Spectrum exemplify the next generation of intelligent trial design.

“The ability to continuously model feasibility and scenario-plan with real-time responsiveness enables R&D organizations to make confident, early-stage decisions that de-risk timelines, optimize budget allocations, and accelerate portfolio value realization,” he said.

Causal AI

Lokavant’s technology uses a variety of AI techniques including an approach called causal AI, which focuses on understanding and modelling cause-and-effect relationships, rather than just identifying patterns or correlations.

Speaking at an industry event last year Aaron Mackey, Lokavant senior vice president of AI and development, said, unlike machine learning, causal AI makes recommendations to help users throughout trials to adjust for changes – including protocol amendments.

He told delegates, “Today’s specialized clinical trials demand technology solutions as smart as the science being studied to overcome long-standing operational challenges.

“Causal AI is a promising innovation that will allow trial teams to overcome common hurdles – such as frequent, mid-study amendments – and drive faster drug development.”

Learn more about AI in clinical trials at one of our upcoming events.

Header image: Depositphotos@kanurism