Abstract

How dementia and neurodegenerative disease clinical research networks have enhanced research delivery in England

Author(s): Piers Kotting, Martin N Rossor, Ian G McKeith & John T OBrien

In 2005 the Government established a clinical research network in dementia and neurodegenerative diseases to increase and improve research in an area of unmet need. Since its creation, the Dementias and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research Network (DeNDRoN) has facilitated a 300% increase in the number of the National Health Service trusts recruiting people to dementia and neurodegeneration research, a 500% increase in the number of open studies each year, and a 600% increase in the number of people taking part in studies. This article summarizes the increased activity and improvements in performance delivered since 2005; describes some of the people networks through which this has been delivered; and describes how the network is evolving as part of the reorganization of the National Institute for Health Research Clinical Research Network.