Synaps aims to solve three major research challenges: define standard and reproducible treatment scheme, assess the efficacy of a photosensitizer and implement a multicentre controlled clinical trial.
PhotoDynamic Therapy (PDT) shows promising efficacy in early-stage experiments on rodent models and in several Phase I clinical trials. Synaps’ research programs aim to translate these findings into actionable therapeutic procedures.

Breakthrough in PDT management

Synaps research endeavours aim to make a breakthrough in PDT management by introducing treatment technologies inspired by medical physics and radiation oncology (metrology, treatment planning system, image guided therapy, molecular imaging).
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Repurposing 5-ALA as a standard photosensitizer for PDT applied to glioblastoma

Ongoing preclinical studies are confirming the efficicency of the 5-ALA laser therapy on glioblastomas and the harmlessness of its delivery inside  the brain. This molecule is already used for diagnotic purposes. It binds to malignant cells and glows under blue light to guide resection during surgery.

Synaps research program aims to reach a consensus for the use of 5-ALA as an effective photosensitizer, able to deliver PDT intraoperatively or interstitially.

Towards a significant multicentre clinical trial

Synaps research teams and clinical network develop a European multicentre controlled clinical trial, to assess the efficacy of this novel therapy and open the way for a new and enhanced treatment of glioblastoma.
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