Pivotal Trial Aims to Improve Overall Function and Quality of Life

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PhotoPharmics, a pioneer in specialized phototherapy for neurodegenerative diseases, alongside the Center for Health + Technology (CHeT) at the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), today announced the initiation of a groundbreaking pivotal trial. The “Celeste Light for PD Trial” (found at lightforpd.com) represents a significant stride in Parkinson’s disease (PD) treatment, leveraging innovative Spectramax® technology through the passive and non-invasive Celeste phototherapy device.

This pivotal trial will assess the efficacy of Celeste, the company’s FDA Breakthrough phototherapy device to improve non-motor and motor function and quality of life in Parkinson’s disease (PD). The Celeste device builds on the company’s innovative Spectramax technology that has been successfully used in previous human research. This 300-patient phototherapy trial will be the largest trial of its kind.

Kent Savage, President and CEO of PhotoPharmics, underlined the importance and anticipation surrounding the trial. “After overcoming funding challenges and delays caused by the global pandemic, we are thrilled to launch this trial, which holds immense promise for those affected by Parkinson’s Disease,” he stated. The trial follows the FDA’s Breakthrough Device Designation for the Celeste device in April 2020, acknowledging its potential in treating PD.

Dan Adams, Chief Science Officer at PhotoPharmics, reflected on the significant outcomes of the previous trials. “Our initial trials demonstrated remarkable improvements in both quality of life and non-motor symptoms for PD patients, offering a new horizon in PD treatment,” Adams said. The MDS-UPDRS Parts 1+2 and the PDQ 39 showed very large clinical benefit, indicating substantial improvements in patients’ day-to-day function and quality of life.

The Celeste phototherapy device is based on the understanding that PD damages the retina and impacts the circadian system and various symptoms such as tremor to sleep, cognition, depression, and fatigue. Targeting photoreceptors in the eye responsible for circadian signaling, Celeste offers a unique and non-invasive treatment approach.

Dr. Ray Dorsey, Professor of Neurology at URMC and lead investigator, emphasized the trial’s at-home, telemedicine-based format. “The convenience of assessing patients’ progress at home makes this trial particularly relevant and accessible,” he noted. This approach allows for broader participation, including individuals in remote locations.

The six-month trial will involve 300 participants enjoying the Celeste device daily during their usual evening activities. This non-invasive therapy complements current medical care, requiring no alteration to existing medical regimes. The telemedicine approach improves access to care by delivering an FDA breakthrough therapy to patients nationwide independent of their proximity to major clinics.

The Celeste trial is poised to address the widespread, critical unmet needs such as sleep disturbances, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and cognition for which there are currently no FDA approved therapies. These symptoms are often more debilitating than motor symptoms and can significantly deteriorate the quality of life.

“A pivotal trial for medical devices is similar to a phase 3 trial drug trial,” said Dan Adams, chief science officer. “As patients reported in our prior trial, this may be the only treatment that improves functional abilities in PD when administered on top of current medication. We recently presented our new trial design to the FDA with a favorable review.”

Participating in the Trial

People with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers may apply to participate in the trial at https://www.lightforpd.com/.

Qualified participants will receive up to $500. No additional pills, surgery, or even doctor’s visits are required. The entire study will be in the comfort of the participant’s home with Zoom video interactions with the medical team.

Focus of the Trial

Current treatments for PD primarily treat motor symptoms, and very few options exist for the debilitating non-motor problems that are also part of the disease. As Parkinson’s progresses, these non-motor issues become even more pronounced and are often the determining factors for quality of life and institutionalization.[1] In fact, the Movement Disorders Society has identified these debilitating non-motor problems as a major unmet therapeutic need.[2]

The LIGHT-PD clinical trial represents a potentially monumental step in PD research and treatment. With its non-invasive approach, broad eligibility criteria, and telemedicine-based design, it stands as a beacon of hope for many. The collaboration between PhotoPharmics and CHeT underscores a commitment to pioneering research and a shared vision of improving the lives of those affected by Parkinson’s Disease.

About CHeT

The Center for Health + Technology (CHeT) is a clinical research organization within the University of Rochester. Their team designs and conducts multi-center clinical trials with collaborators from across the globe to accelerate clinical research and advance the development of therapeutics, benefiting individuals in our community and beyond. Since its inception over three decades ago, CHeT has reshaped the conduct of clinical trials, from incorporating novel technologies into clinical trial design to modeling disease progression. Learn more at https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/health-technology.aspx.

About PhotoPharmics

PhotoPharmics is a privately held, clinical-stage medical device company developing next-generation treatments for treating neurodegenerative disorders through the eyes. Company founders have 30+ years of research and experience in this field. They previously developed specialized light solutions now widely used to regulate circadian rhythms for seasonal affective disorder, sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression (acquired by Philips-Respironics in 2007).

Drawing from research and recent trials, PhotoPharmics is developing applications of specialized light across several neurodegenerative diseases. The company aims to make a clinically meaningful difference in patients’ lives by delivering safe and effective treatments. Learn more at www.photopharmics.com.

[1] Schapira, A., Chaudhuri, K. & Jenner, P. Non-motor features of Parkinson disease. Nat Rev Neurosci 18, 435–450 (2017).

[2] Seppi K, Ray Chaudhuri K, Coelho M, Fox SH, Katzenschlager R, Perez Lloret S, Weintraub D, Sampaio C, collaborators of the Parkinson’s Disease Update on Non‐Motor Symptoms Study Group on behalf of the Movement Disorders Society Evidence‐Based Medicine Committee, Chahine L, Hametner EM. Update on treatments for nonmotor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease—an evidence‐based medicine review. Movement Disorders. 2019 Feb;34(2):180-98.

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Celeste® Light for PD Trial to be Presented at World Parkinson’s Congress

PhotoPharmics to showcase groundbreaking research at the prestigious international event July 5-7, 2023

PhotoPharmics, a leading innovator in Parkinson’s disease, today announced that it will be presenting its pivotal trial design at the World Parkinson Congress July 5th to 7th, 2023 in Barcelona. Aimed at advancing the company’s FDA breakthrough therapy (https://photopharmics.com/fda-grants-breakthrough-designation-for-non-invasive-phototherapy-device-in-parkinsons-disease/) one step closer to market, this at-home, remote randomized clinical trial further solidifies PhotoPharmics’ position as a pioneer in treating Parkinson’s disease.

The World Parkinson Congress is as an exceptional platform where renowned scientists, clinical researchers, healthcare professionals, and individuals affected by Parkinson’s disease convene, exchange knowledge, and engage in cutting-edge scientific discourse. This international gathering facilitates discussions surrounding the latest discoveries, medical breakthroughs, and comprehensive care practices related to Parkinson’s disease.

“We’re delighted with the opportunity to showcase our pivotal trial design at the World Parkinson Congress,” said Kent Savage, CEO of PhotoPharmics. “Presenting here allows our team to collaborate with leading researchers and potential trial participants in advancing our pivotal trial and eventual FDA clearance.”

The focal point of the company’s poster presentation at the Congress will be its highly anticipated, entirely remote, FDA pivotal trial for Celeste, an FDA breakthrough non-invasive treatment for Parkinson’s disease. Through previous trials, Celeste has demonstrated the potential to improve Parkinson’s symptoms beyond the current standards of medical care, setting it apart from existing therapies (see https://photopharmics.com/pivotal-parkinsons-disease-clinical-trial-results-released-at-the-international-movement-disorders-society-congress/).

Savage further elaborated on the groundbreaking potential of Celeste, remarking, “From our earlier trials, we’ve seen Celeste deliver safe improvements in sleep, daytime sleepiness, fatigue, cognition, motor symptoms, and psychological health.”

The Celeste Light 4 PD trial represents a significant advancement in the accessibility of FDA breakthrough therapies. Employing a fully virtual approach, the trial allows participants to engage in the comfort of their homes. All visits will be conducted via Zoom videoconferencing, and participants will receive the Celeste device through convenient shipment.

“Our trial design improves access and reduces costs by allowing those with Parkinson’s who find it difficult to visit a clinic or who live in remote areas to participate in an FDA quality trial,” Savage emphasized. “This makes it possible for so many to be involved in what could be the first major breakthrough in Parkinson’s in decades.”

If successful, Celeste will become the first treatment to alleviate several non-motor symptoms, including sleep, fatigue, mood, cognitive impairments, reduced activity levels, and disrupted circadian rhythm. These symptoms are often as debilitating as the motor problems associated with Parkinson’s disease. Moreover, Celeste aims to improve overall motor symptoms without the burden of adverse side effects and may potentially delay the need for additional dopaminergic medications.

The innovative potential of Celeste lies in its mechanism of action. While Parkinson’s disease primarily affects the motor center of the brain, recent evidence reveals deterioration in the ganglion layer of the retina, responsible for signaling to the brain that affects many non-motor symptoms as well as most physiological behavior. Celeste’s phototherapy stimulates the affected retinal neurons, similar to the stimulation of motor neurons by traditional Parkinson’s medications. Promising results from a double-blind trial indicate that the combination of Celeste with current therapies may improve upon the current standard of care for Parkinson’s disease.

PhotoPharmics’ participation at the World Parkinson Congress and its commitment to advancing Parkinson’s disease treatment underscores the company’s dedication to scientific progress and improving patients’ lives. By embracing virtual trial methodologies and exploring the intricate mechanisms of the disease, PhotoPharmics is at the forefront of transformative research in Parkinson’s disease.

About PhotoPharmics
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PhotoPharmics is a leading medical device company focused on revolutionizing the treatment landscape for Parkinson’s disease. With a strong commitment to scientific research and innovation, the company aims to develop breakthrough therapies that address the complex and diverse challenges faced by individuals with Parkinson’s. Led by CEO Kent Savage, PhotoPharmics leverages cutting-edge technology and a deep understanding of the disease to drive advancements in non-invasive treatments.

Through its groundbreaking Celeste Light for PD trial, PhotoPharmics is pioneering a virtual trial design that ensures inclusivity and accessibility for participants. By eliminating geographical barriers and offering remote participation, the company is expanding opportunities for individuals to contribute to the advancement of Parkinson’s research.

PhotoPharmics’ participation at the World Parkinson Congress represents a pivotal moment in the company’s journey, showcasing its dedication to collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the pursuit of improved patient outcomes. With a vision to transform the lives of individuals living with Parkinson’s, PhotoPharmics continues to push the boundaries of innovation and remains committed to bringing new hope to the Parkinson’s community.

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PhotoPharmics brings renowned experts in Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases to advisory board

Breakthrough device innovator will leverage the expertise of leading authorities to bolster the company’s future success in treating major unmet needs of Parkinson’s disease and beyond

Clinical-stage medical device maker PhotoPharmics today announced a Clinical & Scientific Advisory board (CSAB) comprised of six leading experts in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and other neurodegenerative diseases. The board’s aim is to provide clinical and scientific advice and direction to support the PhotoPharmics mission to “Improve the lives of people who suffer from neurodegenerative diseases.”

The board will be chaired by C. Warren Olanow, MD, a leading researcher, clinician, and influencer in developing solutions for PD and other neurodegenerative diseases, advisor to dozens of life science companies and organizations, including the Michael J Fox Foundation and National Space Board Research Institute, and the recipient of a lifetime achievement award from the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.

“We are extremely pleased that Dr. Olanow has agreed to chair our Advisory Board,” said Kent Savage, CEO of PhotoPharmics. “Add to his impressive background the expertise of each of our other experts, and we are well organized to move our breakthrough platform technology through trials and into the hands of people with Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.”

Joining Dr. Olanow on this board will be:

• Ray Chaudhuri, MD, a world leading authority on non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, professor of neurology/movement disorders at King’s College London, author of hundreds of papers in this field, and co-editor of five books on PD.
• Rajesh Pahwa, MD, Chief of the Parkinson’s and Movement Disorder Division and Director of Parkinson Foundation Center of Excellence at the University of Kansas Medical Center, author of more than 200 peer-reviewed articles, and instrumental in over 100 clinical trials related to PD and other movement disorders.
• Joohi Jimenez-Shahed, MD, Medical Director of Movement Disorders Neuromodulation at Mount Sinai Hospital, principal investigator for several related clinical trials, widely published, and an emerging expert in intraoperative neurophysiology for patients undergoing deep brain stimulation (DBS) and the application of wearables and digital health technologies in PD.
• Dan Claassen, MD, MS, Chief of Behavioral and Cognitive Neurology at Vanderbilt University, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders characterized by disruptions to cognition, behavior, and movement—particularly in PD, Huntington’s, and atypical PD.
• Amy Amara, MD, PhD, leads research efforts around movement disorders neurology and sleep at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, specializes in studies sleep disorders in PD, the influence of non-pharmacologic interventions such as exercise on sleep disorders, cognition, and other non-motor symptoms, with deep research in biomarkers in PD and interventions to improve safety in patients.

“As an emerging leader in non-invasive specialized light therapy for neurodegenerative diseases, PhotoPharmics will benefit from the advice and insight of this world-class advisory board,” said Karl Kieburtz, MD, Chief Medical Officer of PhotoPharmics. “The board will be extraordinarily valuable as we continue our clinical investigations and prepare to commercialize our therapeutic solutions.”

The board will meet regularly to advise on key strategic decisions, review emerging research, and support the company’s scientific, clinical and commercialization efforts.

About PhotoPharmics

PhotoPharmics is a privately held, clinical-stage medical device company developing next-generation treatments for treating neurodegenerative disorders through the eyes. Company founders have 30+ years of research and experience in this field. They previously developed specialized light solutions now widely used to regulate circadian rhythms in seasonal affective disorder, sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression (acquired by Philips-Respironics in 2007).

Drawing from research and recent trials, PhotoPharmics is developing applications of specialized light across several neurodegenerative diseases. The company aims to make a clinically meaningful difference in patients’ lives by delivering safe and effective non-invasive treatments. Investor inquiries are welcomed. Learn more at www.photopharmics.com.

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PhotoPharmics Appoints Dr. Karl Kieburtz as Chief Medical Officer

World-renowned neurologist and movement disorders specialist joins PhotoPharmics as company advances breakthrough device through pivotal clinical trial and to commercialization

August 31, 2021, Salt Lake City, UT—PhotoPharmics announced today that it has appointed Karl Kieburtz, MD, MPH, as Chief Medical Officer (CMO). In his role as CMO, Dr. Kieburtz will oversee the company’s clinical strategy and activities, including direct supervision of scientific development, clinical operations, data science, and interactions with FDA.

Dr. Kieburtz has extensive experience executing clinical trials for Parkinson’s disease programs across all stages of development. Dr. Kieburtz is currently President of Clintrex Research Corporation, a leading clinical research organization that facilitates the clinical and regulatory aspects of drug and device development for biotech and pharma organizations. Dr Kieburtz’s role as CMO is part of an on-going collaboration between PhotoPharmics and Clintrex. He also continues as Professor of Neurology at the University of Rochester, where he was founding director of the Center for Health & Technology (CHeT).

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Kieburtz to lead our clinical development,” said Kent Savage, President & CEO of PhotoPharmics. “He has an extensive track record in Parkinson’s disease and is a proven leader in central nervous system disorders. His insight and expertise will be invaluable to PhotoPharmics as we advance development of our therapies in Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases.”

“I am excited to join PhotoPharmics, an emerging leader in non-invasive light therapy for neurodegenerative diseases,” said Dr. Kieburtz. “PhotoPharmics and Clintrex have been collaborating for several years on a developing a clinical and regulatory strategy for a therapeutic light to treat the motor and non-motor features of Parkinson’s disease. I am pleased to move to the next phase of clinical development with PhotoPharmics, taking on the role of CMO and helping to guide the company through a final pivotal study and towards commercialization. The product has great promise, given the results to date, its simple non-invasive approach, and its ability to be used along with all available PD therapies.”

In addition to his work at the University of Rochester and Clintrex Research Corporation, Dr. Kieburtz was the initial Robert J. Joynt Professor in Neurology and served as the Senior Associate Dean for Clinical Research and Director of the Clinical & Translational Science Institute in Rochester. His primary research interest is novel therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases. He led the NINDS sponsored trials of neuroprotective agents for PD (NET-PD), served as the Chair of the Executive Committee of the Parkinson Study Group, and directed the Clinical Core for the Fox Foundation sponsored Parkinson Progression Marker Initiative. He previously served on and chaired the FDA Advisory Committee on Peripheral and Central Nervous System Disorders. In 2009, he was one of the co-founders of Clintrex Research Corporation which has collaborated with over 150 organizations in developing products for brain and neurological disorders. Dr. Kieburtz received his BA in Neuroscience from Amherst College and completed his MD and MPH degrees at the University of Rochester as well as his neurology training and Fellowship in experimental therapeutics.

About PhotoPharmics

PhotoPharmics is a privately held, clinical-stage medical device company developing next-generation treatments for treating neurodegenerative disorders through the eyes. Company founders have 30+ years of research and experience in this field. They previously developed specialized light solutions now widely used to regulate circadian rhythms in seasonal affective disorder, sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression (acquired by Philips-Respironics in 2007).

Drawing from research and recent trials, PhotoPharmics is developing applications of specialized light across several neurodegenerative diseases. The company aims to make a clinically meaningful difference in patients’ lives by delivering safe and effective non-invasive treatments. Investor inquiries are welcomed. Learn more at www.photopharmics.com.

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