Northstar Neuroscience’s post-stroke brain implant, designed to help restore function by stimulating damaged tissue surrounding the infarct, is doing well in trials and attracting investors’ attention:
Northstar Neuroscience Inc. said Tuesday that its key clinical trial, which uses a brain implant to help stroke victims regain control of hands and arms, is one quarter ahead of schedule…
The Seattle-based biotechnology firm is in the middle of several clinical trials for a stamp-sized electrode that stimulates the cortex of the brain with electrical currents. The company hopes to one day market the device to treat stroke-related problems such as motor-skill loss, speech loss and ringing in the ears.
Wall Street analysts are apparently thrilled. One quoted in the article said:
“One of the things we look at is, ‘Will a technology be pushed or pulled through the FDA?’ ” Brozak said. “This device will be pulled through the FDA like none before it.”
The product’s effect on patients is tangible, he said, and no other companies appear to be making the same device.
“Every so often, you come up with a company that will author a genuine life-changing technology,” Brozak said. “This is it.”
We agree, strokes are pretty depressing and it seems the majority of research and clinical interest is in preventing them, not dealing with the aftermath. So we’re excited that this brain stimulator may help an otherwise bleak situation.
More from Northstar Neuro…
Flashback: Northstar Stroke Recovery