MacDonald Clinical Trials Group

The MacDonald Clinical Trials Unit (MCTU) was established in 2002 to conduct industry-supported pharmaceutical drug and device trials in women's health and to support physician-initiated clinical research within the department. Since its inception, the MCTU has established a strong reputation as a regional leader in the conduct of pharmaceutical trials in women's health.

The research staff in the MCTU offers investigators the support they need to conduct clinical research. MCTU staff are uniquely trained to carry out research protocols with an emphasis on patient safety and research quality.

Obstetrics and Gynecology Research

Obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) clinicians representing all subspecialties conduct research both at the University Hospitals Landerbrook Health Center outpatient facility and University Hospitals MacDonald Women's Hospital. They have recently expanded efforts to include University Hospitals Ahuja Medical Center and University Hospitals Westlake Health Center.

The MCTU at UH MacDonald Women's Hospital is staffed by highly qualified and experienced clinical research coordinators. The Nursing Core consists of a full-time certified research registered nurse. The research staff is responsible for all aspects of ongoing clinical research projects including protocol planning, implementation and documentation of study activities.

Each clinical trial is assigned to a research nurse or coordinator. Working with the principal investigator (PI), the research nurse or coordinator collaborates with the PIs and co-investigators to identify subjects who may be willing to participate. The study staff reviews patient eligibility, educates the patients about clinical trial risks and benefits, and conducts study assessments and follow-ups. The research staff are closely involved with patients, monitoring their progress throughout the clinical trial and ensuring that patients’ safety, rights and privacy remain protected

Dedicated Clinical Trials for Pharmaceutical Research

The Director of the MCTU is Dr. Angelina Gangestad, MD. Dr. Gangestad along with the MCTU team has extensive experience in pharmaceutical-oriented research trials including:

• Endometriosis
• Hot flush
• Menopause
• Female Sexual Arousal Disorders
• Progestin-only contraceptives
• Uterine Fibroids
• Pap testing
• Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

To learn more about current obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive biology research, contact 440-995-3810, email mctu@uhhospitals.org, or visit our patient research section.