I’m sure most here are hoping that the first 90 patient readout...

I’m sure most here are hoping that the first 90 patient readout leads to the trial being suspended because of overwhelming efficacy.

If that doesn’t happen, (and I know some think that would ultimately give a better data set), recent research out of USA suggests that clinical trials are now taking considerably longer than originally anticipated. A combination of factors, including the huge number of competing trials, sometimes several at the same site, overwhelmed hospitals, staff workload issues, reluctant patients and under representation of minority groups are said to be contributing to the problem.

When I read a few weeks ago that just one of the 15 sites in MSB’s Covid-19 trial had already recruited 30 patients, I was thinking that getting to 300 would be a doddle. However, given MSB recently chose to add two additional sites, I now realise that I might need to temper my expectations.

I can see considerable advantages in the close proximity of GVHD approval and a positive 90 patient Covid readout, particularly impact on the FDA, first mover advantage and the political support potentially to follow.

So for me, to avoid potential delays, bring on a positive readout and cessation due to efficacy.

Regardless, after listening through the early hours last Thursday night, I am absolutely convinced that Mesoblast is in very safe hands. Exciting times!

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/14/health/covid-19-antibody-treatments.html

https://www.statnews.com/2020/08/14...iverse-populations-despite-awareness-efforts/

Herro.