Neuralstem has obtained notice of allowance for a patent that covers various methods to use expanded spinal cord stem cells such as NSI-566 to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease).
The company completed Phase I safety trial of NSI-566 stem cells in ALS and also won orphan drug designation.
Upon FDA approval, a Phase II trial is scheduled for commencement.
Neuralstem chairman and chief scientific officer Karl Johe said the previous claims cover methods of culturing and treating neurodegenerative conditions uisng NSI-566 cells
"The claims being allowed here cover methods for using these cells specifically in the treatment of ALS, an indication in which we have already reported peer-reviewed patient data and anticipate advancing to a Phase II study soon," Johe added.
