Spheramine

Spheramine is a novel cell therapy product developed for the treatment of advanced Parkinson's disease. It consists of cultured human retinal pigment epithelial (hRPE) cells attached to cross-linked porcine gelatin microcarriers. The therapy is administered by stereotactic implantation into the striatum, aiming to provide a more continuous delivery of levodopa, as hRPE cells naturally produce this dopamine precursor. Unlike other cell-based therapies, Spheramine does not require immunosuppression due to its design. Clinical studies included open-label and randomized controlled trials in patients with advanced Parkinson’s disease who were inadequately controlled by standard oral medications[1][3][5]. The drug was granted Orphan Drug and Fast Track designation by the FDA for this indication[5].

Brand names

Spheramine

Other names

allogeneic human retinal pigment epithelial cells on gelatin microcarriers