Sinaptica, a clinical-stage company pioneering personalized neuromodulation therapies for Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases, has announced the publication of a study in Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy. The study utilized MRI and fMRI neuroimaging to assess structural and connectivity changes in mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s patients following treatment with their proprietary non-invasive precision therapy. Known as “nDMN,” this therapy targets the Default Mode Network (DMN) via rTMS-EEG technology, specifically focusing on the Precuneus.
Titled “Macro and micro structural preservation of grey matter integrity after 24 weeks of rTMS in Alzheimer’s disease patients: a pilot study,” the publication is a sub-study of a larger randomized Phase 2 trial. Results demonstrated significant deceleration in grey matter atrophy within the Precuneus, a critical node of the DMN associated with episodic memory and early Alzheimer’s pathology. Microimaging analysis, supported by Oxford Brain Diagnostics, also revealed preserved microstructural integrity across DMN regions, highlighting nDMN’s spatial specificity.
Functional connectivity, assessed via fMRI, showed increased connectivity within the Precuneus and across the DMN, suggesting enhanced network integrity crucial for memory functions. These findings represent a novel approach in slowing atrophy and bolstering functional connectivity in Alzheimer’s patients through personalized neuromodulation.
Dr. Giacomo Koch, Sinaptica’s scientific co-founder and lead author, emphasized, “This pilot study provides groundbreaking insights into the structural and functional changes induced by personalized rTMS-EEG targeting of the DMN in Alzheimer’s patients.” The study involved 16 patients, employing a treatment protocol comprising an intensive phase of daily sessions followed by a maintenance phase over 24 weeks. Structural and functional MRI assessments before and after treatment underscored the therapy’s impact on multiple biological levels.
Ken Mariash, CEO of Sinaptica, highlighted, “These imaging findings reinforce our Phase 2 trial results, demonstrating nDMN’s ability to induce neuroplasticity, mitigate atrophy, and preserve functional networks crucial for Alzheimer’s patients.” With FDA Breakthrough Device Designation secured, Sinaptica prepares for a Phase 3 trial, building on robust clinical data showing significant disease progression slowdown and cognitive benefits.
Sinaptica’s advancements underscore a promising avenue in Alzheimer’s treatment, leveraging innovative neuroimaging to validate therapeutic efficacy and safety in advancing personalized care paradigms.
