NCT07287397 · Vector Y Therapeutics
Study is to Assess the Safety and Tolerability of VTx-002 in Participants With ALS
(ALS)
What this study is about
PIONEER-ALS is a Phase 1/2, conducted at multiple hospitals, where both patients and doctors know the treatment given, ascending dose, uncontrolled, first-in-human study that will evaluate the safety, tolerability and effects on clinical and biomarker endpoints of intracisternal administration of Vtx-002 in participants with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
View original scientific description
PIONEER-ALS is a Phase 1/2, multicenter, open-label, ascending dose, uncontrolled, first-in-human study that will evaluate the safety, tolerability and effects on clinical and biomarker endpoints of intracisternal administration of Vtx-002 in participants with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Two escalating dose (low dose and high dose) cohorts are planned. The duration of the study will be a maximum of 5 years and 5 weeks (265 weeks) for each participant. The screening period may last up to 5 weeks to complete screening procedures.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Capable of, and willing to, provide written informed consent and comply with study procedures, including visits to the study site and visit requirements
- Male or female ≥ 18 years of age
- Has a diagnosis of ALS according to the El Escorial criteria (Brooks, et al., 2000) (probable, laboratory results supported; clinically probable, clinically definite)
- Confirmed absence of ALS caused by FUS and SOD1 gene mutations confirmed by laboratory tests.
- A maximum of 18 months since first appearance of weakness (e.g., limb weakness, dysarthria, dysphagia, shortness of breath)
- Erect (seated) SVC % predicted ≥ 80% at Screening
- Treatment Research Initiative to Cure ALS (TRICALS) risk score between -2 and -6 at Screening
- Has a reliable caregiver/partner/legal representative willing and able to support the participant in participation in the study and to give informed consent on behalf of the participant in the case that disease progression prevents the participant of giving consent (local legal rules will apply).
- Treatment with riluzole and/or edaravone is allowed if treatment was started and has remained at a stable dose for at least 2 weeks (riluzole) or one treatment cycle (edaravone) before the Screening visit
- Women of childbearing potential (WOCBP) and male participants with female partners who are WOCBP must agree to use highly effective contraception during and after the study. WOCBP cannot be pregnant or breastfeeding
- Women of nonchildbearing potential must be post-menopausal or surgically sterile (e.g. hysterectomy, bilateral tubal ligation, ovaries removed) Key
Exclusion criteria
- Diagnosis of a significant CNS or peripheral nervous system disease other than ALS that may be a cause for the participant's ALS symptoms or may confound study objectives
- Spinal, cervical, or brain MRI/MRA indicating clinically significant abnormality
- Presence of tracheostomy and feeding tube at Screening
- Contraindications to corticosteroid use (e.g. due to osteoporosis, uncontrolled blood pressure, diabetes or cholesterol). 5\. Significant concomitant disease or condition within 6 months of Screening that could pose an unacceptable safety risk to the participant or interfere with the participant's ability to comply with study procedures, e.g. heart disease, uncontrolled diabetes, liver disease, autoimmune diseases needing strong immune-suppressing drugs, cancer, etc or a current psychiatric diagnosis. 6\. Clinically significant abnormalities in laboratory test results at Screening for example poor liver or kidney function, abnormal clotting or infections such as Hepatitis or HIV 7\. Use of blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, heparin, and novel oral anticoagulants) and being unable to safely stop them before certain study procedures. 8\. Contraindications to imaging methods MRI, MRA, CT due to claustrophobia and/or intolerance to contrast agents. 9\. Contraindications to general anaesthesia (GA) or deep sedation 10 Positive test for illegal drugs (except prescribed medications or permitted medicinal/recreational marijuana if used responsibly) 11\. Generally frail or if the Investigator deems participation in the study would not be in the best interest of the participant or is likely to prohibit further participation during the study Other protocol-defined inclusion/exclusion criteria may apply \-
Where
- Phoenix, Arizona
- San Diego, California
- Jacksonville, Florida
- Miami, Florida
- Boston, Massachusetts
- New York, New York
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 23, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations