The results of a clinical study have been presented confirming the efficacy and safety of a miniature implant for neuroimmune modulation in patients with severe rheumatoid arthritis. The technology was developed to activate the body’s innate anti-inflammatory mechanisms, which are impaired in people with autoimmune diseases.

The SetPoint technology is intended for the treatment of adult patients with complex forms of active rheumatoid arthritis in cases where modern targeted therapies fail to produce results. The treatment involves activating anti-inflammatory pathways in the vagus nerve, with the goal of reducing inflammation and restoring immune balance, BioSpace reports.

Vagus nerve stimulation is delivered using a miniature implantable device that operates automatically once a day for one minute, triggering an anti-inflammatory response.

Clinical studies showed that a therapeutic response was observed in 50% of patients within six months and in 52% after 12 months of using the method. After one year, 75% of patients no longer required additional treatment options.

The implant is inserted through a small incision in the neck area. It is recharged once a week using a small external device that the patient needs to wear around the neck. The developers also plan to adapt the new method for the treatment of a range of other conditions.