QUALIFICATION PATHWAYDrug Development ToolsNAMs Acceptance
FDA Qualification Program

FDA ISTAND Program

Innovative Science and Technology Approaches for New Drugs

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The ISTAND Pilot Program provides a pathway for qualifying innovative drug development tools (DDTs), including microphysiological systems and other New Approach Methodologies. Once qualified, these tools can be used across multiple drug development programs without re-qualification, streamlining regulatory submissions and reducing development risk.

QUALIFICATION MILESTONES

  • 2022: Emulate Liver-Chip first MPS to receive ISTAND qualification
  • Context of Use: Identification of DILI risk in drug candidates
  • Validation Data: 87% sensitivity for hepatotoxicity prediction
  • 870 compounds tested: Largest organ-chip validation dataset

QUALIFICATION PROCESS

  • Stage 1: Letter of Intent and initial consultation
  • Stage 2: Qualification Plan submission and review
  • Stage 3: Full Qualification Package submission
  • Stage 4: FDA review and qualification decision
  • Stage 5: Public announcement and context of use documentation
LEGISLATION
← FDA Modernization 2.0
NIH PROGRAM
NCATS Tissue Chip →
← Regulatory Hub