Diseases

Progressive supranuclear palsy

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a neurodegenerative disease, which means it is a chronic condition that gets worse over time as damage builds up in parts of the nervous system. It affects the central nervous system, causing issues with movement, balance, and eye control^1-3. PSP is uncommon, affecting 5.8 to 6.5 people in every 100,000². The average age of onset is 65 years old and it tends to be slightly more common in men^1-3.

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The exact cause of PSP is not fully known, but it is related to the abnormal protein tau accumulation and neuronal loss⁴. Tau protein is a special protein in the brain that helps keep brain cells healthy by supporting their structure¹.

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Abnormal tau accumulation causes the death of neurons, leading to the characteristic symptoms of the disease: difficulties maintaining balance and changes in walking, problems with eye control such as difficulty looking down, cognitive impairment, and difficulties with speaking and swallowing, among others^1-3.

Although there is currently no cure for PSP, there are treatment options that can help alleviate the symptoms^1-3. Physical and occupational therapy also play an important role in improving mobility and quality of life. Additionally, emotional and social support is essential for affected individuals and their families^1-3.

1. Coughlin DG, Litvan I. Progressive supranuclear palsy: Advances in diagnosis and management. Parkinsonism Relat Disord. 2020 Apr;73:105-116. doi: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2020.04.014. Epub 2020 May 25.

2. Agarwal S, Gilbert R. Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024. Available at:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526098/

3. Rowe JB, Holland N, Rittman T. Progressive supranuclear palsy: diagnosis and management. Pract Neurol. 2021;21(5):376-383. doi: 10.1136/practneurol-2020-002794

4. Ling H. Clinical Approach to Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. J Mov Disord. 2016;9(1):3-13. doi:10.14802/jmd.15060

FNP 223 – Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)

Phase 2

FNP223-CT-2301 PROSPER

Neurological disorders
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of FNP-223 (oral formulation) for the treatment of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP).

Ongoing

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