The TREAT-NMD Advisory Committee for Therapeutics (TACT) is a unique multidisciplinary group of international experts including academic and industry drug development experts, representatives of patient foundations, and regulatory bodies. TACT provides independent, multidisciplinary guidance to academic and industry groups developing therapies for neuromuscular diseases (NMDs). Since 2009, TACT has convened more than 85 bespoke expert panels, integrating clinical, preclinical, regulatory, and patient perspectives to support rigorous, evidence-based assessment of therapy development programmes. The TACT review model combines structured six-week evaluations, applicant panel discussions, and confidential reports. This process strengthens translational research and clinical trial planning, optimises decision-making, and helps de-risk drug development. Applicants consistently report that TACT feedback informs strategic go/no-go decisions, improves study design, and enhances funding applications.
Recent initiatives further enhance TACT’s accessibility and impact. A new Applicant Guide now offers detailed process information, practical submission advice, and clarity on timelines and expectations, enabling applicants to better prepare and maximise the value of the review. TACT has also welcomed a new Chair, Dr Chris Weihl, strengthening leadership as the programme continues to grow internationally.
Together, these developments reinforce TACT’s role as a sustainable, globally utilised expert review mechanism that supports responsible, data-driven therapy development across the translational research pipeline.