Promising New Trial Aims to Protect Brain Cells in Parkinson’s

Hillhurst Biopharmaceuticals has been awarded $6.3 million to support a new clinical study testing whether a low-dose, oral carbon monoxide treatment could help slow or stop the progression of Parkinson’s disease. What Is the Treatment? The investigational therapy, called HBI-002, is a liquid form of carbon monoxide taken by mouth—not inhaled. While carbon monoxide is known to be harmful at high levels, research suggests that very small doses may protect brain cells, including those affected by Parkinson’s. Why Carbon Monoxide? Interestingly, studies have observed that people who smoke may have a lower risk of developing Parkinson’s. Researchers think this may be due in part to carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke, which in low doses could play a protective role in the brain. Preclinical research in animal models of Parkinson’s has shown that HBI-002 may help preserve dopaminergic neurons—the brain cells that produce dopamine and are critical for movement. These neurons are progressively lost in Parkinson’s disease. In one study, HBI-002 helped maintain dopamine levels in a key brain area involved in motor control. What Will the New Study Look At? The Phase 2a clinical trial, will enroll 36 people diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Over 14 days, researchers will examine: Safety of the treatment Pharmacokinetics (how the drug moves through and exits the body) Changes in biomarkers that may show how the drug is working This trial builds on a successful Phase 1 study in healthy adults, where HBI-002 was found to be safe and well-tolerated. Who’s Funding the Research? The funding includes: $2 million from The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research $4.3 million from the Farmer Family Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital Hillhurst emphasized that this trial is an important step toward developing innovative, neuroprotective therapies for Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative diseases. What This Means for People Living with Parkinson’s While this research is still in the early stages, it reflects a growing effort to go beyond treating symptoms and focus on protecting the brain and potentially slowing disease progression. For those living with Parkinson’s, it offers hope and a reminder that new approaches are actively being explored.