Galvani Bioelectronics

Galvani Bioelectronics is a pioneering clinical-stage company formed in 2016 through a strategic partnership between pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Verily Life Sciences, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc. The company is dedicated to developing targeted neuromodulation therapies, often referred to as "bioelectronic medicines," which involve stimulating specific nerves associated with individual organs central to a disease.

Galvani's innovative bioelectronics platform centers around the world's first fully laparoscopically implanted neurostimulator, the result of five years of extensive research and development. This implant is tailored for stimulating nerves connected to visceral organs and can be easily programmed by the treating physician via a wirelessly connected tablet. Patients can monitor, control their therapy, and wirelessly charge their implant.

In January 2022, Galvani achieved a significant milestone by initiating the first clinical study of its investigational treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This treatment involves stimulating the splenic nerve, which generates signals that shift splenic immune cells from a pro-inflammatory to an anti-inflammatory state. The reprogrammed immune cells then circulate to the joints, potentially reducing or resolving inflammation and associated pain.

The RA clinical study, approved by UK regulators, is evaluating the safety of Galvani's platform in patients with moderate-to-severe RA who have not responded adequately to other treatments. In parallel, a larger randomized, double-blind study approved by the US FDA is assessing the safety and effectiveness of the platform in the same patient population.