PathMaker Neurosystems Reduced ALS Proteins in Study

A Boston-based neurotechnology firm reported a significant decrease in toxic proteins in a preclinical ALS trial.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Stroke

PathMaker Neurosystems Reduced ALS Proteins in Study

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PathMaker Neurosystems has demonstrated a 76% reduction of TDP-43 protein particles in a mouse model of ALS using non-invasive stimulation. The study, published in the journal Neuromodulation, suggests that suppressing spinal motor neuron excitability may slow disease progression.

Why it matters

Accumulation of misfolded TDP-43 protein is a primary driver of neurotoxicity in approximately 97% of ALS cases. By targeting this mechanism, researchers hope to develop new non-invasive therapies to address the underlying causes of the disease.

The study recorded a 76% reduction in TDP-43 protein particles following four weeks of Multi-Site direct current stimulation. Research indicates that 97% of ALS cases involve the cytoplasmic accumulation of this specific protein.

The players

PathMaker Neurosystems

This is a neuromodulation company based in Boston and Providence that develops non-invasive medical devices for treating neurological conditions.

CUNY College of Staten Island

This public research university is the academic institution affiliated with the lead author of the newly published neuromodulation study.

The details

Researchers treated the ALS mouse model with non-invasive Multi-Site direct current stimulation three times per week for four weeks. The stimulation increased expression of the HSP70 protein and allowed the treated mice to maintain better motor performance compared to the control group.

October 6, 2026: Study results were officially announced.

The Big Picture

This study aligns with the broader push toward non-invasive neuromodulation as a viable alternative to pharmacological interventions for neurodegenerative diseases. By leveraging the FDA Breakthrough Device Designation program, PathMaker Neurosystems aims to accelerate the transition of its technology from animal models into clinical practice.

While this study provides a promising look at non-invasive stimulation, current treatments remain limited for the roughly 34,000 ALS patients in the United States. Patients may monitor the ongoing clinical trials for future opportunities to access emerging neuromodulation therapies.

The takeaway

This study marks a potential shift in how researchers approach ALS by focusing on the electrical suppression of protein-heavy motor neurons. Continued advancement of this technology could eventually provide a new standard of care for patients suffering from neurodegenerative conditions.