The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) approved an $8 million award to Aspen Neuroscience to advance a stem‑cell‑derived dopaminergic neuron therapy for Parkinson’s disease. This personalized therapy is being tested in a first‑in‑human Phase 1/2a trial for people with moderate to advanced PD.

More than one million Americans live with Parkinson’s, a neurodegenerative disorder that causes motor problems, balance issues, and coordination loss. Current therapies reduce symptoms but do not treat the underlying disease, leaving a major unmet need.

“We thank CIRM for supporting our autologous cell therapy program for Parkinson’s, a highly personalized condition,” said Damien McDevitt, PhD, President and CEO of Aspen Neuroscience. “This first‑in‑human trial reflects years of work by a remarkable team. Providing patients with their own dopamine neuron cells could impact the entire neurodegenerative field.”

The trial will assess safety, tolerability, and early efficacy of this one‑time therapy, which could eliminate the need for daily medication.

“This award is an important step in advancing individualized therapy with the potential to restore motor function,” said Abla Creasey, PhD, CIRM’s Vice President of Therapeutics Development.