Galmed Announces Brain-Penetrating Aramchol Formulation for Parkinson’s Disease and CNS Indications

On April 9, 2026, Galmed Pharmaceuticals announced the development of a new brain-penetrating formulation of its SCD1 inhibitor, Aramchol. Co-developed with Barcode Nanotech, this proprietary formulation utilizes lipid nanoparticles and subcutaneous administration to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The initiative targets central nervous system (CNS) diseases characterized by α-synuclein aggregation, such as Parkinson’s disease (PD), multiple systems atrophy (MSA), and dementia with Lewy bodies. In-vitro studies demonstrated that Aramchol effectively down-regulated α-synuclein aggregation in a dose-dependent manner without associated toxicity. Recent research suggests SCD1 is a critical therapeutic target for mitigating synucleinopathies. Based on these findings, Galmed intends to pivot Aramchol—previously focused on liver and cardiometabolic diseases—into the CNS space. The company is currently seeking regulatory advice and plans to initiate Phase 1b/2 proof-of-concept studies in patients with Parkinson’s disease during the second half of 2026.