Pulmonary Neuromodulation for Asthma

(PULSAR Trial)

This trial investigates a new treatment called Pulmonary Neuromodulation, which targets the nervous system in the lungs, to determine its safety and effectiveness for people with moderate to severe asthma. The study will compare two groups: one starting the treatment immediately and another starting later. Individuals who have experienced moderate to severe asthma for at least a year, struggle to control symptoms despite high-dose medications or biologics, and find that asthma frequently disrupts daily life might be suitable candidates.

As an unphased trial, this study allows patients to contribute to groundbreaking research that could lead to new treatment options.

Research has shown that Pulmonary Neuromodulation for asthma is generally safe. Most participants in studies tolerated the treatment well, experiencing mostly mild and temporary side effects, such as skin irritation at the electrode site. Additionally, research on similar spinal cord treatments found that 91% of participants reduced their asthma medication use by more than half. Notably, 73% stopped using medication entirely, indicating a positive impact on safety and effectiveness. These findings suggest that Pulmonary Neuromodulation could be a safe option for people with moderate to severe asthma.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about pulmonary neuromodulation for asthma because it introduces a novel approach that targets the nervous system to manage asthma symptoms, unlike typical treatments that focus on reducing inflammation or opening airways. This method involves spinal cord stimulation, offering a new mechanism of action that may provide relief for patients who don't respond well to standard medications like inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators. By potentially altering nerve signals involved in asthma attacks, this treatment could offer a longer-lasting and more effective solution for managing asthma symptoms.

Research has shown that Pulmonary Neuromodulation can greatly benefit people with moderate to severe asthma. One study found that 91% of participants reduced their asthma medication use by more than half. On average, patients experienced an 88% reduction in medication use. This trial will evaluate Pulmonary Neuromodulation through two different approaches: one group will receive immediate activation of the therapy, while another group will have delayed activation. Pulmonary Neuromodulation might reduce the need for traditional asthma drugs, potentially easing symptoms and improving quality of life. Some evidence also suggests it can help with airway tightening, a common issue in asthma.¹²³⁶⁷