PLATFORM
UltraNav is our novel ultrasound-based platform for drug delivery to the brain. Our technology applies a beam of focused ultrasound to a therapeutic target in the brain.
The beam acts on intravenously administered “microbubbles” to open the blood-brain barrier (BBB) noninvasively, temporarily, and at a specific location. Commercial microbubbles are FDA-approved and deemed safe for use in diagnostic imaging applications.
Once the BBB is opened by UltraNav, drug therapies can be administered. After treatment, the BBB re-closes spontaneously.
We have initiated trials in pediatric brain cancer and Alzheimer’s disease and are planning additional trials.
WATCH HOW THE TECHNOLOGY WORKS
UltraNav clinical set-up
UltraNav transducer
❝ We have initiated trials in pediatric brain cancer and Alzheimer’s disease and are planning additional trials. ❞
Platform Goals
Efficacy
► Enhanced drug uptake into the brain and promising signs of efficacy in preclinical models (brain cancer, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease).
► Drug agnostic: The platform is compatible with any class of therapeutics, including small molecules, nucleotides, proteins, antibodies, gene therapies, and cell therapies. No drug reformulation is required.
Safety
► Preclinical studies in rodents and primates, as well as clinical trials in human patients, have demonstrated promising safety data.
Convenience
► Brief procedure: 30 minutes or less.
► Portable system: Can be wheeled to the patient in an outpatient clinic.
► MRI-free: No intraoperative MRI. Prior MRI and CT scans are used for targeting.