Alume Biosciences has received Fast Track designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for ALM-488, a novel fluorescent peptide-dye conjugate intended for real-time surgical nerve visualization. This designation aims to accelerate the development and review of ALM-488, addressing the unmet medical need for improved intraoperative nerve imaging. The Fast Track designation was granted based on preliminary data from Alume's ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical trial of ALM-488 in patients undergoing head and neck surgery.
ALM-488: Illuminating Nerves During Surgery
ALM-488 is a proprietary compound that binds to the extracellular matrix of nerves, enabling real-time visualization during surgical procedures. Its unique binding characteristics, independent of myelin, allow it to highlight various nerve types, including motor, sensory, autonomic, and degenerated nerves. This broad applicability makes ALM-488 potentially useful in surgeries where nerves are at risk, such as skull base, head and neck, spine, and nerve-sparing prostatectomy procedures.
In vivo studies suggest that ALM-488 possesses pharmacokinetic properties suitable for clinical utility in labeling ureters in urology, gynecology, and lower abdominal surgical indications. The ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical trial is being conducted at multiple sites, including the University of California San Diego (UCSD), Stanford Medical Center, and Harvard-Massachusetts Eye & Ear, with anticipated completion in Q2 2021.
The Need for Improved Nerve Visualization
The Fast Track designation underscores the urgent need for enhanced intraoperative nerve visualization. Current surgical techniques often rely on visual inspection and tactile feedback to identify and preserve nerves, which can be challenging, especially in complex anatomical regions or in cases involving nerve degeneration. ALM-488 offers a potential solution by providing real-time, specific nerve illumination, potentially reducing the risk of nerve damage during surgery.
Alume Biosciences: Developing Nerve-Specific Imaging Agents
Alume Biosciences, founded in 2017 and headquartered in the Johnson & Johnson Innovation incubator JLABS @ San Diego, is focused on developing nerve-specific targeting molecules for intraoperative imaging. In addition to ALM-488, Alume is developing other nerve-specific agents for diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
