National Institute of Mental Health Awards a Phase I SBIR Grant to MicroTransponder to Develop a Neurostimulation-based Therapy to Treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Dallas, TX, February 19, 2010 --(PR.com)-- MicroTransponder, Inc., a privately-held medical device company, announced that it has been awarded a Phase I SBIR grant from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) to develop a neurostimulation-based therapy for the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This project will explore utilizing the company’s novel method of targeted plasticity to enhance the extinction of fearful memories in a laboratory setting. MicroTransponder is developing neurostimulation-based therapies for a wide range of neurological disorders using wireless devices.

PTSD is a tremendous health concern in the United States. According to the National Center for PTSD (NCPTSD), approximately 8% of the US population suffers from the disorder. The Society for Neuroscience reports that 5.2 million Americans, aged 18-54, are newly diagnosed with PTSD each year. There is likewise a growing awareness of this condition in the military, as up to 20-35% of the soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are estimated to suffer from PTSD.

“MicroTransponder’s novel approach to treating PTSD utilizes the body’s natural ability to both enhance memory and control anxiety. Our therapy enables currently existing rehabilitation protocols such as Exposure Therapy to be far more effective due to enhanced memory capabilities,” stated Navzer Engineer, MD, PhD, Vice President of Preclinical Affairs.

Will Rosellini, CEO of MicroTransponder, stated, “This grant demonstrates the great potential of our neurostimulation therapy to treat many devastating neurological disorders. We are excited by the opportunity to explore a therapy which could potentially help many of our returning military warfighters and prevent a lifetime of psychological suffering. With support from the NIMH, our goal is to make this treatment available to both soldiers and civilians as soon as possible.”

About MicroTransponder, Inc.
MicroTransponder (www.microtransponder.com) is developing a wireless neurostimulation system for the treatment of chronic pain and several other neurological indications. The minimally invasive device will provide relief from chronic pain without requiring an implanted battery or wires. The company is finalizing R&D on the device and accumulating data towards FDA clearance. MicroTransponder also is adapting the system for a pipeline of innovative treatments for other neurological indications, including tinnitus, stroke rehabilitation, anxiety, and Parkinson’s disease.

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MicroTransponder Inc.
Jordan Curnes
214-770-0935
www.microtransponder.com
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