Start the process of enlisting participants for the Phase 2 clinical trial for Parkinson's Disease and Multiple System Atrophy
Even though medication can manage some symptoms of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), we currently have no effective drugs or treatments to slow down the disease. However, there's a glimmer of hope for MSA patients. Alterity Therapeutics, a biotech company focusing on treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, has begun recruiting participants for a Phase 2 clinical trial at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, USA, specifically for MSA patients. Dr. David Stamler, the CEO of the company, believes that their treatment, ATH434, could potentially help Parkinson's disease patients who have rapidly progressing MSA. Currently, they're actively seeking patients for Phase 2 clinical trials in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the United States.
ATH434's Potential in Diverse Parkinson's Disease Therapies
ATH434, a product of Alterity, is an orally administered drug that tackles protein accumulation linked to neurodegenerative disorders. It aids in managing the brain's iron equilibrium, subsequently reducing the pathological alterations in α-synuclein and protecting neurons. This has been validated through preclinical trials.
Not limited to Parkinson's disease, ATH434 has shown encouraging results in treating MSA. It has demonstrated effectiveness in animal models of MSA and has successfully completed Phase 1 trials. In addition, the US FDA and the European Commission have both granted special approvals for ATH434 in treating MSA.
Phase 2 Clinical Trial
Alterity Therapeutics is seeking participants for our Phase 2 clinical trial (ATH434), aimed at treating MSA. We will investigate how ATH434 impacts early-stage MSA patients from various perspectives. Our objective is to demonstrate the effectiveness of ATH434 by observing changes in brain imaging and protein markers, and by assessing its safety. We will use levels of brain iron and α-synuclein, significant factors in MSA's progression, to confirm ATH434's effectiveness. Additionally, we will use wearable sensors to monitor the motor activity of MSA patients. We plan to include approximately 60 adult participants, who will receive either ATH434 or a placebo for a year. The insights gained from this Phase 2 clinical trial will be instrumental in shaping future Phase 3 studies.Understanding MSA Symptoms
MSA is a rare neurodegenerative condition characterized by problems affecting both the autonomic nervous system and motor functions. This disorder originates from the malfunction or loss of various nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, resulting in severe disabilities. MSA often presents symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease. These may include reduced speed of movement, muscle stiffness, and autonomic irregularities, such as blood pressure fluctuations and bladder control challenges. Disturbances in balance or coordination are also common, increasing the risk of falls for individuals.
The disease presents with certain pathological features, such as the buildup of α-synuclein in the glial cells of the central nervous system and the reduction of nerve cells in various brain areas. Currently, around 15,000 individuals in the United States are managing life with MSA. Although medication can help control some symptoms, we currently lack effective drugs or treatments to slow the progression of the disease.