Sam Brusco, Associate Editor10.19.23
GE HealthCare began a partnership with Novo Nordisk to advance clinical and product development of peripheral focused ultrasound (PFUS). The novel technology could specifically regulate metabolic function using ultrasound to support treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity.
PFUS uses ultrasound to activate the nervous system to stimulate a response that could treat disease. The duo said preclinical proof of concept and initial early-stage clinical research suggests it can impact glucose metabolism in people with diabetes via personalized ultrasound stimulation of nerve paths.
Once validated with more clinical evidence, PFUS could be a non-pharmacologic approach to normalize blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes patients. The existing tech was developed by a team of scientists at GE HealthCare’s HealthCare Technology and Innovation Center.
“In an era where diabetes is increasing around the globe, we are enthusiastic about the potential for ultrasound to help people live healthier lives,” Roland Rott, president and CEO, Ultrasound, GE HealthCare told the press. “This collaboration with Novo Nordisk opens a path to evolve ultrasound from a means of screening and diagnosis into therapy, as well. We are eager to validate and further develop this potentially groundbreaking science, as we strive to offer patients alternative treatment options for chronic diseases.”
GE HealthCare and Novo Nordisk said they will contribute their respective expertise in ultrasound tech and metabolic disease treatment and management to develop a PFUS solution. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
“We look forward to exploring the potential impact this technology could have on treating people with type 2 diabetes and obesity, as significant unmet needs remain in these diseases in spite of recent advances in care,” said Martin Holst Lange, executive VP and head of development at Novo Nordisk. “Although early, the possibilities of using ultrasound for therapeutic purposes are compelling and we welcome our collaboration with GE HealthCare in this truly novel area.”
PFUS uses ultrasound to activate the nervous system to stimulate a response that could treat disease. The duo said preclinical proof of concept and initial early-stage clinical research suggests it can impact glucose metabolism in people with diabetes via personalized ultrasound stimulation of nerve paths.
Once validated with more clinical evidence, PFUS could be a non-pharmacologic approach to normalize blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes patients. The existing tech was developed by a team of scientists at GE HealthCare’s HealthCare Technology and Innovation Center.
“In an era where diabetes is increasing around the globe, we are enthusiastic about the potential for ultrasound to help people live healthier lives,” Roland Rott, president and CEO, Ultrasound, GE HealthCare told the press. “This collaboration with Novo Nordisk opens a path to evolve ultrasound from a means of screening and diagnosis into therapy, as well. We are eager to validate and further develop this potentially groundbreaking science, as we strive to offer patients alternative treatment options for chronic diseases.”
GE HealthCare and Novo Nordisk said they will contribute their respective expertise in ultrasound tech and metabolic disease treatment and management to develop a PFUS solution. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
“We look forward to exploring the potential impact this technology could have on treating people with type 2 diabetes and obesity, as significant unmet needs remain in these diseases in spite of recent advances in care,” said Martin Holst Lange, executive VP and head of development at Novo Nordisk. “Although early, the possibilities of using ultrasound for therapeutic purposes are compelling and we welcome our collaboration with GE HealthCare in this truly novel area.”