ResearchKit

Said app enables asthma patients to participate in a study by using their iPhones; the new features enable participants to use the app with their physicians.

The research is looking to develop an effective method for predicting seizures; the apps for the study are now in beta testing, and should be out on Sept. 18.

The expansion to other markets was introduced as part of the update that added new features that help study participants keep their heart healthy.

While GSK is looking to integrate Apple's platform into clinical trials, Purdue is only in the proof-of-concept stage in its ResearchKit exploration.

The study will look at identifying and treating health issues such as HIV/AIDS, cancer, obesity, substance abuse and behavioral health problems like depression.

LifeMap Solutions claims that Asthma Health app users as engaged (or more) with Asthma Health as they are with games and social networks.

The apps, based on Apple's ResearchKit platform, will offer some iPhone owners the chance to get their DNA tested, many of them for the first time.

Apps conducting health-related human subject research must secure approval from an independent ethics review board; proof must be provided upon request.

ResearchKit apps can access data from sensors to gain insight into a participant's activity levels, motor impairments, memory and more.

However, some researchers caution about potential flaws in the information gathered through ResearchKit, while some others love it; FDA supports the efforts.