In the picturesque hills of Barcelona, Neuroelectrics, a pioneering brain science start-up, is making significant strides in the field of epilepsy treatment with its innovative technology. The company, founded and led by Ana Maiques, specializes in developing therapies aimed at improving the lives of individuals grappling with brain diseases worldwide.
Neuroelectrics’ flagship product is a revolutionary headcap device that monitors and modulates the brain’s electrical activity using gentle electrical currents. This noninvasive approach holds promise particularly for patients with epilepsy, a condition affecting 60 million people globally, a third of whom do not respond adequately to traditional medication.
“Patients who do not respond to medications often resort to invasive procedures like surgery or implantation of devices. Neuroelectrics aims to provide a noninvasive alternative to reduce seizures,” explained Ana Maiques in an interview with CNBC Tech: The Edge.
The effectiveness of Neuroelectrics’ technology has been underscored by a recent study sanctioned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), involving 17 patients. The results showed a median reduction in seizures by 41%, laying a solid foundation for the company’s pursuit of FDA approval by September 2025.
Apart from epilepsy, Neuroelectrics is optimistic about extending the application of its headgear to treat other conditions such as depression and Alzheimer’s disease. According to Roser Sanchez-Todo, the R&D director for Neuroelectrics’ brain modelling department, the device’s ability to monitor and stimulate specific brain regions holds potential in addressing diverse neurological disorders.
Central to Neuroelectrics’ approach is the development of a personalized digital model of the patient’s brain, known as a NeuroTwin. This innovative technology allows clinicians to simulate brain responses to various treatments and stimulations, akin to flight simulators used for training pilots.
“We use AI and machine learning to create a digital replica of the patient’s brain. This enables us to predict how the brain will react to our therapies, providing a tailored approach to treatment,” Maiques elaborated.
The ultimate goal is to empower patients to use the headcap device independently at home. The treatment regimen typically involves ten daily sessions lasting 20 minutes each over eight weeks. The device is user-friendly, requiring minimal assistance for electrode gel application and operation, thereby enhancing convenience and accessibility for patients.
“Aside from the initial setup, using the headcap is straightforward. Patients can initiate the stimulation themselves, followed by a period of relaxation during the session. Maintenance involves simple cleaning before the next session,” added Sanchez-Todo.
Neuroelectrics’ innovative strides in brain science not only promise to revolutionize epilepsy treatment but also pave the way for personalized neurostimulation therapies across various neurological conditions. As the company continues its journey towards FDA approval, the global medical community eagerly anticipates advancements that could potentially redefine standards of care in neurology.
