Procedure to initiate investigator-initiated trials via NSGO-CTU
NSGO-CTU promotes the development of investigator-initiated studies from study concept to full study.
NSGO-CTU is committed to advancing the field of gynecologic oncology by developing and supporting new clinical trials and research studies. The organization works closely with its members to identify and prioritize research questions, design and implement clinical trials and disseminate research findings.
To facilitate the development of new studies, NSGO-CTU provides a Concept Development Form that investigators can use to submit study proposals. The form is designed to guide investigators through the process of preparing their concept for submission to NSGO-CTU and includes a checklist of key elements that must be addressed in the proposal.
By using the Concept Development Form, investigators can ensure that their proposals meet CTU’s requirements and are properly structured to maximize their chances of approval. The form covers essential topics, including study objectives, research questions, patient population, study design, endpoints, statistical considerations, and ethical considerations.
NSGO-CTU encourages its members to use this resource to potentially develop high-quality research proposals that address critical questions in gynecologic oncology. We are committed to supporting its members in their research endeavors and working collaboratively to advance the field and improve patient outcomes.
Please ensure that your concept addresses the points noted herein.
Guidelines for completing your study concept
Concept Title
– Should be in the PICO format (i.e. the title should hold information on the Participants, Intervention and Comparison groups, and the Outcomes of the trial)
Background and Significance
− Have you addressed the scientific validity?
− Is it an important question?
− Size of population defined?
− Sufficient rationale to proceed?
− Is it clinically relevant?
Study Summary
− Aims: Are they clearly stated?
− Trial objectives: Do the objectives match the aims?
− Hypothesis: Are they clearly stated? Do they match aims and objectives?
− Endpoints: Are the endpoints measurable? Are they suitable to answer trial questions?
Study Design and Statistics
− Phase of study stated?
− Is design appropriate to address the question?
− Are treatment arms clearly described?
− What is the sample size estimate?
− Is the sample size justified in terms of primary endpoint?
− Is the study likely to detect a clinically significant difference?
− Has a statistician reviewed the study design?
− Is the study feasible? Outline the proposed sources of subjects and estimated recruitment rates
Subject Population
− Target population and setting should be described briefly
− Main inclusion criteria – are they clearly stated and clinically relevant?
Study Intervention
− Briefly describe actions to be taken
Funding
− Is there any financial support for the study?
Other
− Is there a translational research component?
− Have QOL and Health Economics assessments been included?
− Is there collaborative support from other trials groups?
Concept Development Form
Please ensure that your concept addresses the points noted in the Concept Development Form.
A checklist is provided below to aid investigators in preparing their concept for submission to NSGO-CTU.