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Study on Trehalose Dihydrate for Treating Spinocerebellar Ataxia in Adults

Fast replyInvestigationalNo placebo
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What is this trial about?

A plain-language summary of the goals, design and what participants do

This clinical trial is focused on studying a condition called Spinocerebellar Ataxia type-3 (SCA3), which affects the brain and can lead to problems with movement and coordination. The study is testing a new treatment called SLS-005, which is a solution given through an intravenous infusion. The main ingredient in this treatment is trehalose dihydrate, a type of sugar that is being investigated for its potential benefits in treating SCA3.

The purpose of the study is to determine how effective SLS-005 is in treating adults with SCA3. Participants in the study will receive either the SLS-005 treatment or a placebo, which looks like the treatment but does not contain the active ingredient. The study will last for about a year, during which participants will receive regular infusions and attend follow-up visits to monitor their health and any changes in their condition.

Throughout the study, researchers will assess various aspects of the participants' health, including their ability to perform daily activities and any changes in their symptoms. The goal is to see if SLS-005 can improve the quality of life for people with SCA3 by reducing the severity of their symptoms. Participants will be closely monitored for any side effects or adverse reactions to ensure their safety during the trial.

The research process

The trial runs in 6 steps – from screening to follow-up. Each step says what happens and what the team monitors.

  1. Step 1

    Joining the study

    Upon joining the study, you will be asked to provide a signed informed consent. This is a document that confirms your understanding of the study and your willingness to participate.

    You will undergo a screening process to confirm your eligibility. This includes verifying your age, medical condition, and other criteria such as your Body Mass Index (BMI) and medication stability.

  2. Step 2

    Initial assessment

    An initial assessment will be conducted to establish a baseline for your condition. This involves measuring your m-SARA score, which evaluates your symptoms related to spinocerebellar ataxia.

    Additional assessments may include the Clinical Global Impression of Severity (CGI-S) and the Patient Global Impression of Severity (PGI-S).

  3. Step 3

    Treatment phase

    You will receive the study medication, SLS-005, or a placebo through an intravenous infusion. The dosage is 0.75 grams per kilogram of your body weight.

    The treatment will be administered regularly over a period of 52 weeks. The frequency of administration will be explained to you by the study team.

  4. Step 4

    Ongoing assessments

    Throughout the study, your condition will be monitored at various intervals. Key assessments will occur at weeks 4, 13, 26, 39, and 52.

    These assessments will include changes in your m-SARA score, CGI-S, PGI-S, and Friedreich’s Ataxia Rating Scale – Activities of Daily Living (FARS-ADL) score.

  5. Step 5

    Safety monitoring

    Your safety will be closely monitored for any treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) or serious adverse events (SAEs).

    Regular laboratory tests and ECGs (electrocardiograms) will be conducted to ensure your well-being.

  6. Step 6

    Completion of the study

    At the end of the 52-week period, a final assessment will be conducted to evaluate the overall impact of the treatment.

    You will be informed about the results of the study and any potential next steps.

Who can join the trial?

9 criteria

  • Signed informed consent, which means you agree to participate after understanding the study.
  • Men and women aged between 18 and 75 years old.
  • A clinical diagnosis of Spinocerebellar Ataxia type-3 (SCA3) confirmed by genetic testing.
  • A total score of 4 or higher on the m-SARA test at the screening visit. The m-SARA is a scale used to measure the severity of ataxia symptoms.
  • A score of 1 or higher on the gait component of the m-SARA test at the screening visit. This part of the test measures walking ability.
  • Body Mass Index (BMI) between 18 and 35. BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight.
  • Stable doses of all other medications for at least 30 days before the screening visit.
  • A negative pregnancy test result at the screening visit for female participants who can become pregnant.
  • Willingness to follow the study's guidelines on sexual abstinence or use of contraception.

Who cannot join the trial?

8 criteria

  • Patients who do not have a confirmed diagnosis of Spinocerebellar Ataxia type-3 (SCA3) cannot participate.
  • Patients who are not adults are excluded from the study.
  • Patients who are unable to provide informed consent are not eligible.
  • Patients with other serious health conditions that might interfere with the study are excluded.
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women cannot participate.
  • Patients who are currently participating in another clinical trial are not eligible.
  • Patients with a history of allergic reactions to the study medication are excluded.
  • Patients who have used certain medications that might interfere with the study within a specific time frame before the study starts are not eligible.
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Investigated drugs

SLS-005 (Trehalose Injection) is a treatment being tested for its ability to help people with a condition called spinocerebellar ataxia type-3, which affects movement and coordination. This medication is given through an intravenous infusion, meaning it is delivered directly into the bloodstream through a vein. The goal of using SLS-005 is to see if it can improve symptoms or slow down the progression of this condition in adults.

What is already known about the treatment

SLS-005 (Trehalose Injection) – This medication is administered as an intravenous infusion, meaning it is delivered directly into the bloodstream through a vein. Currently, it is being studied in clinical trials to evaluate its safety and effectiveness for treating Spinocerebellar Ataxia type-3 (SCA3), a rare genetic disorder that affects movement. The main therapeutic goal of SLS-005 is to improve symptoms associated with SCA3. At the molecular level, trehalose is believed to work by helping to stabilize proteins and prevent their abnormal clumping, which is thought to contribute to the disease. It is classified pharmacologically as a sugar molecule with potential neuroprotective properties.

Investigated diseases

Spinocerebellar Ataxia type-3 (SCA3) – Spinocerebellar Ataxia type-3, also known as Machado-Joseph disease, is a genetic disorder that affects the central nervous system. It is characterized by progressive problems with movement, including unsteady gait and lack of coordination. Over time, individuals may experience muscle stiffness, weakness, and involuntary eye movements. The disease can also lead to difficulties with speech and swallowing. As it progresses, it may affect other systems, causing symptoms such as sleep disturbances and neuropathy. The progression and severity of symptoms can vary widely among individuals.
Trial detailsLast updated 2 Oct 2026
Age18+ yearsPhasePhase IVTrial ID2022-501004-10-00Protocol codeSLS-005-302Estimated enrolment245 patientsSponsorSeelos Therapeutics Inc.

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On this site, “treatment” means an investigational medicine being studied in a clinical trial. Its safety and efficacy for the use being studied have not yet been confirmed, some participants may receive a placebo or a comparator medicine, and taking part does not guarantee any health benefit. The decision to take part is made by the doctor at the research site. This site is for information only and does not replace medical advice.

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