PhotoPharmics, a leader in neurodegenerative disease phototherapy, has reached a significant milestone in its Light for PD clinical trial. The company has enrolled its first 100 subjects, marking an important step in assessing Celeste, an FDA Breakthrough light therapy device designed for Parkinson’s disease (PD). The trial, which aims to recruit a total of 300 participants, is a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study focused on demonstrating both the safety and effectiveness of Celeste in improving motor and non-motor symptoms of PD.

Parkinson’s disease is a debilitating condition where the brain’s ability to regulate movement and other functions deteriorates over time. Recent research highlights that the eyes play a crucial role in the brain’s signaling processes. Celeste works by delivering specific wavelengths of light to restore retinal signaling, potentially enhancing both function and quality of life for individuals with PD.

Kent Savage, CEO of PhotoPharmics, expressed enthusiasm about reaching this milestone. He acknowledged the support from the University of Rochester’s Center for Health + Technology (CHeT) and movement disorder neurologists nationwide who are involved in the trial. Savage believes that this passive, non-invasive phototherapy could offer substantial benefits to those affected by Parkinson’s disease.

Dr. Ray Dorsey, Professor of Neurology at the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) and lead investigator of the trial, highlighted the significance of the milestone. According to Dorsey, the study is an exciting development in the search for innovative Parkinson’s disease treatments. The trial utilises advanced phototherapy technology to potentially enhance motor and non-motor symptoms, offering renewed hope for patients. Dorsey also underscored the importance of the collaboration with PhotoPharmics and the commitment of trial participants in driving research forward.

Participants in the trial use the Celeste device for one hour daily during routine activities such as reading, eating, or watching TV. This non-invasive therapy complements existing treatments without altering current medication regimens. The at-home, telemedicine-based format of the trial improves accessibility, making it easier for participants, including those in remote areas, to take part.

The primary endpoints of the Light for PD study include enhancements in quality of life, motor function, sleep quality, mood, and cognition, evaluated through clinical scales and patient-reported outcomes. Initial research and preliminary studies have suggested that this specialized phototherapy could have a significant impact on PD symptoms with minimal side effects. This innovative approach may offer a new, non-invasive treatment alternative, potentially improving daily life for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Dan Adams, Chief Medical Officer at PhotoPharmics, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to advancing phototherapy for neurodegenerative conditions. Adams stated that understanding retinal deterioration’s role in these diseases and developing non-invasive treatments are central to their mission. PhotoPharmics is focused on pioneering new treatment methods backed by rigorous scientific research and clinical validation.

Looking ahead, PhotoPharmics plans to explore the application of its light therapy technology for other neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s disease. Savage expressed excitement about these prospects, aiming to deliver safe and effective treatments that enhance patients’ quality of life and offer new hope in managing neurodegenerative conditions.

  Celeste, Center for Health + Technology, Dan Adams, Dr. Ray Dorsey, Kent Savage, Parkinson’s disease, PhotoPharmics, University of Rochester, URMC