Thread, a North Carolina startup focused on decentralized clinical research tech, announced its purchase of voice-powered research company inVibe for an undisclosed sum. 

inVibe uses machine learning algorithms and human analysis to capture data and gain insights. The technology can be used to collect real-world patient voice data during a clinical trial.

​​“inVibe adds capabilities to the Thread platform that allow us to integrate the power of voice into clinical research. This will help us as we seek to create the best possible trial experiences for participants and all other study stakeholders.

"The ability to analyze and integrate data from listening technology is currently missing from other top players in the industry. We are moving the needle when it comes to delivering adaptive, patient-centered research experiences,” John Reites, CEO of Thread, said in a statement.

WHY IT MATTERS 

Following the acquisition, inVibe's technology will be incorporated into Thread's decentralized research platform. Thread customers will now be able to use inVibe's technology to capture patient and provider voices, and use voice in recruitment services. Customers will also have access to real-time data dashboards, listening sessions and reports, and a team of linguists. 

“The inVibe solution supports multiple research phases and stakeholders, keeping patients and healthcare professionals as our top priority at all times,” said Fabio Gratton, CEO of inVibe.

“Joining Thread will expedite the delivery of primary research with direct participant listening research via automated survey and voice data capture, and will alter the outcomes of new drugs in the marketplace.”

THE LARGER TREND 

This isn't Thread's first acquisition. In November, the company scooped up Modus Outcomes, a research consultancy focused on clinical outcome assessments and participant-focused trial design.

There are a number of decentralized clinical trial platforms on the market today. For example, Medable, a digital clinical trial tool, scored $304 million in Series D funding. This fall, TrialSpark, a tech-driven clinical trial startup, landed Series C. Additionally, Florence, a digital clinical research platform, landed $80 million in Series C funding in May 2021.