The leader in computerized cognitive testing
CDR System®
A new generation of computerized cognitive testing
The Signant SmartSignals® Cognitive Drug Research System (CDR System®) revolutionized how we measure changes in cognition in clinical trials. Over 35 years ago, the CDR System was the first computerized solution to challenge paper-and-pencil neuropsychological testing, providing groundbreaking millisecond reaction time, electronic data capture, and parallel forms for repeated administration (addressing the challenge of learning effects). Since then, its widespread adoption has generated the industry’s largest normative database, spanning the broadest range of therapeutic areas, and facilitating meaningful interpretation of test findings.
Our next generation web-based solution uses keyboard input to deliver the same proven administration speed and millisecond accuracy of its predecessor solution, with easier logistics and administration. This was driven by significant research into evolving industry needs and investment into the next generation release of the most widely validated cognitive testing system in clinical trials.
Identify subtle cognitive changes
Measure major cognitive domains
The CDR System assesses aspects of attention, information processing, memory (episodic and working), and executive function. These aspects of cognitive function are essential to regular activities of everyday living.
Detect subtle changes early
Administer this highly sensitive battery of computerized cognition tasks, specifically designed for clinical trials, repeatedly throughout your study to identify changes in cognitive function in any participant population.
Complete assessments quickly
Each assessment is brief to complete (30 minutes or less depending on the content of the battery) thus reducing participants testing burden.
Why choose Signant’s CDR System to support your cognitive testing study?
Signant's medical and scientific experts ensure that for every study, the right battery of tests is selected to meet the study objectives, and to fit with the needs of the patient population. Validated in over 50 languages, and providing multiple parallel forms for each test, the CDR System can address any trial and any testing schedule.
Reliable Data
The Signant SmartSignals CDR System produces data that is more reliable and measurable than paper-based methods.
Industry-Leading Database
Signant’s industry-leading normative database and extensive list of publications (and papers) will enhance interpretation of your data.
Scientific Expertise
Signant’s CDR System is provided with our scientific expertise to help you understand and assess the effect of your drug/therapy on cognitive function and safety.
Fast Administration
Signant’s CDR System attention battery can be administered in 7-30 minutes by non-specialists. The battery content can be tailored to your protocol’s needs, and data are automatically uploaded to a secure database and immediately available for analysis.
Application areas include:
Assess your drug's cognitive safety
Signant’s attention tests have been used in over 500 cognitive safety assessments over the last 35 years, some of which were used to support product labeling, across a broad range of therapy areas
Measure drug effects in MCI and Alzheimer's disease
Signant's attention, memory and executive function tests have been used extensively in mild cognitive impairment, and mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease
FAQs
How are cognitive changes assessed in clinical trial patients?
Cognitive function and changes are assessed using three general approaches: self-report, informant-report, and performance-based measures. Many scales and questionnaires, such as ECog, are commonly used to measure general cognitive function as well as indication-specific cognition, such as ADAS-COG in dementia studies. Other approaches include sensitive computerized clinical assessment batteries designed to detect subtle cognitive changes that can be applied in any trial for any indication.
What is included in a clinical trial cognitive assessment?
While scales and questionnaires vary depending on their purpose, cognitive assessments generally test working memory, episodic memory, attention, tasks, and functions required for everyday life, such as problem-solving and personal care.
What is the purpose of a cognitive test in clinical trials?
Cognitive assessments are used to detect subtle changes in cognitive function, such as impairment or improvements, to determine a treatment’s effect in patients.
What population can this system assess?
Our web-enabled CDR System is a disease-agnostic tool that can provide cognitive testing for any type of population, from healthy volunteers and patients with minor cognitive impairment to patients with dementia.
Can you assess cognitive deficit, cognitive improvement, or both using the SmartSignals CDR System
Featuring bidirectional sensitivity, the CDR System can assess potential deficit and improvement in cognition as exemplified by frequent use in Phase I clinical research studies.
Explore the Signant SmartSignals® CDR System®
Safeguard your drug's cognitive safety with precision using our cutting-edge web-based solution, featuring validated cognitive tests for accurate, sensitive, and interpretable insights vital for drug development