SynuSight Biotech's SST001 Alpha-Synuclein PET Tracer Receives NMPA Approval for Phase I Clinical Trial

Key Takeaways

• SST001 (18F-FD4) is the first alpha-synuclein targeted PET tracer to receive NMPA approval for clinical testing in China
• The diagnostic tool could revolutionize early detection of Parkinson’s disease and other synucleinopathies by directly imaging alpha-synuclein protein deposits
• Phase I trial will evaluate safety and dosimetry in healthy volunteers before advancing to patient studies

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SynuSight Biotech Advances Parkinson’s Diagnostic Innovation

SynuSight Biotech, an incubated company of Shanghai-listed Mabwell (688062.SH), announced on April 14, 2026, that China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has approved its investigational alpha-synuclein PET tracer SST001 for Phase I clinical trials. The approval marks a significant milestone in developing advanced diagnostic tools for Parkinson’s disease and related neurodegenerative disorders.

Revolutionary Diagnostic Approach

SST001, also known as 18F-FD4, represents a breakthrough in neuroimaging technology. Unlike current diagnostic methods that rely primarily on clinical symptoms, this PET tracer directly targets alpha-synuclein protein aggregates—the hallmark pathological feature of Parkinson’s disease, Lewy body dementia, and multiple system atrophy.

The approved Phase I study will be conducted as a non-randomized, open-label trial focusing on safety evaluation and radiation dosimetry assessment in healthy volunteers. This initial phase is crucial for establishing the tracer’s safety profile before progressing to efficacy studies in patients with suspected synucleinopathies.

Market Impact and Clinical Significance

The alpha-synuclein imaging market represents an unmet medical need affecting over 10 million people worldwide with Parkinson’s disease. Current diagnostic accuracy relies heavily on clinical observation, often leading to delayed or misdiagnosis. SST001 could enable earlier, more accurate diagnosis, potentially improving patient outcomes through timely intervention.

Mabwell’s strategic investment in SynuSight Biotech demonstrates the growing focus on precision medicine and molecular imaging. The company’s integrated biopharmaceutical platform positions it well to advance this innovative diagnostic tool through clinical development.

Next Steps and Timeline

Following successful Phase I completion, SynuSight plans to initiate Phase II studies evaluating SST001’s diagnostic performance in patients with suspected Parkinson’s disease and other alpha-synuclein-related disorders. The company expects to report initial safety data within 12-18 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does SST001 approval mean for Parkinson’s patients?

SST001 could provide earlier and more accurate Parkinson’s diagnosis by directly imaging alpha-synuclein protein deposits in the brain, potentially leading to better treatment outcomes through earlier intervention.

When will SST001 be available for clinical use?

SST001 is entering Phase I trials and will require several years of clinical testing. If successful, it could potentially reach market in 3-5 years pending regulatory approvals.

How does SST001 differ from current Parkinson’s diagnostic methods?

Unlike current methods that rely on clinical symptoms and DaTscan imaging of dopamine transporters, SST001 directly targets alpha-synuclein protein aggregates, the actual cause of Parkinson’s disease pathology.