Medical device and MedTech insights, news, tips and more

First US Clinical Trial using Focused Ultrasound for Alzheimer’s Disease Underway

October 23, 2018

Insightec-Exablate-Neuro_0

Researchers at the West Virginia University (WVU) Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute have treated the first patient in a new, groundbreaking clinical trial utilizing focused ultrasound to open the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in patients with early Alzheimer’s disease.

Led by neurosurgeon Ali Rezai, MD, the trial uses Insightec’s Exablate Neuro device to temporarily and reversibly open the BBB in regions of the brain affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers will evaluate whether focused ultrasound reduces the debilitating plaques and cognitive decline that are the hallmarks of the disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common neurodegenerative condition, and medical treatments to date have been only modestly effective at slowing cognitive decline and can only treat the symptoms. Researchers believe this is due in part to the BBB – a protective layer of cells that lines the blood vessels of the brain and prevents harmful substances, such as toxins and infections, from entering the brain. Unfortunately, it also prevents adequate amounts of some medications from reaching diseased brain targets.

In July, results of a similar trial from a team at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto were published in Nature Communications. That study demonstrated the feasibility and preliminary safety of focally, reversibly, and repeatedly opening the BBB in six patients.

The first patient in the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute trial is Judi, a 61-year-old nurse who had to stop working due to disease-induced short-term memory loss. Preliminary results demonstrate that the BBB was safely and successfully opened. After the procedure, Judi was in good spirits and went home.

“I am hopeful that focused ultrasound opening of the blood-brain barrier will prove to be a valuable treatment option for Judi and other patients with early Alzheimer’s who are confronting the enormous challenges associated with the disease on a daily basis,” said Dr. Rezai.

Foundation Chairman Neal F. Kassell, MD, added, “We applaud the team at West Virginia University for their work to advance focused ultrasound therapy for these patients. This is the first trial of its kind in the US, and the pioneering work of Dr. Rezai and his team will expand the body of knowledge that exists for brain applications of focused ultrasound therapy and pave the way for US patients to gain access to treatment.”

“Insightec is honored to collaborate with prominent research teams to advance innovative treatments for patients with Alzheimer’s disease,” said Maurice R. Ferré, MD, chief executive officer and chairman of the Board of Insightec. “The opening of the blood-brain barrier with our focused ultrasound technology is a new frontier that holds enormous potential for treating challenging diseases in the brain.”Read More at the Source: First US Clinical Trial for Alzheimer’s Disease Underway – Focused Ultrasound Foundation


Press Release by West Virginia University | College of Medicine


 

A Speciality Recruiting Firm Exclusively Servicing The Medical Device Industry

Legacy MedSearch has more than 30 years of combined experience recruiting in the medical device industry. We pride ourselves on our professionalism and ability to communicate quickly and honestly with all parties in the hiring process. Our clients include both blue-chip companies and innovative startups within the MedTech space. Over the past 10 years, we have built one of the strongest networks of device professionals ranging from sales, marketing, research & , quality & regulatory, project management, field service, and clinical affairs.

We offer a variety of different solutions for hiring managers depending on the scope and scale of each individual search. We craft a personalized solution for each client and position with a focus on attracting the best possible talent in the shortest possible time frame.

Are you hiring?
Contact us to discuss partnering with Legacy MedSearch on your position.

More insights

March 7, 2024
FDA Clears Dexcom’s First Over-the-Counter Continuous Glucose Monitor
Learn More
March 1, 2024
FDA greenlights Boston Scientific’s Novel Drug-Coated Balloon for Coronary In-Stent Restenosis
Learn More
February 21, 2024
Sparrow BioAcoustics Launches Software That Turns a Smartphone into a Stethoscope 
Learn More

Begin your legacy now. We are your medtech and medical device talent advisory firm.