Inside Track: NorCal SCI Connects with Researchers on Breakthrough Bladder Study
NorCal SCI recently had the opportunity to connect directly with the research team at EG 427, and we are excited to share some "insider" details on a study that is pushing the boundaries of what is possible for bladder management. Our direct communication with the researchers has given us a closer look at a project that is truly at the forefront of SCI science, and we are thrilled to be in the loop on such a significant development.
This work is also being championed by SCI Ventures, a philanthropy fund co-founded by the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation to ensure the most promising treatments—like this one—reach the community as quickly as possible.
The Science: A New Way to Think About Bladder Control
For many, the standard approach to bladder management involves medications or frequent procedures. The researchers we spoke with are taking a much more targeted approach. Using their "HERMES" technology platform, they have developed EG110A, a pinpoint gene therapy.
Think of it as a highly specific delivery service for the nervous system. The therapy uses a non-multiplying vector to carry a study drug directly to the sensory nerve cells near the spinal cord that control the bladder. By silencing the specific signals that cause involuntary contractions, the therapy aims to stop leakages at the source without affecting the rest of the body or your DNA.
Progress Report: What’s Happened So Far
The data the team shared with us is incredibly encouraging. In the first phase of the study, patients saw an 88% reduction in urinary incontinence episodes by the 12-week mark. Even better, those results were maintained through the 24-week follow-up. This suggests that a single treatment could offer long-term relief, which would be a massive shift in quality of life for those performing daily intermittent catheterization.
The Future: Moving Beyond Management
The ultimate goal for these researchers is to move away from simply managing symptoms and toward a long-term biological solution. They are currently enrolling their second group of participants to refine the dosage. Beyond SCI, they hope this technology will eventually provide relief for people living with Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s, and other conditions involving neurogenic bladder.
How You Can Get Involved
If you want to be a part of this clinical milestone, the research team is looking for participants right now.
Eligibility Highlights:
Diagnosis of neurogenic bladder (NDO) due to a spinal cord injury (at least 12 months post-injury).
Injury level is above the sacrum.
Between 18 and 75 years old.
Currently experiencing several leakages per week despite daily catheterization.
Travel & Logistics: We asked the team about the logistics for our community, and they confirmed that all travel costs will be covered to get participants to the study site as required throughout the 52-week study. While there is no additional monetary compensation, the coverage of travel expenses makes this a very accessible opportunity for those who qualify.
Study Site: The primary hub for this study is located in Southern California:
Los Angeles, CA: Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center
Contact: Sandra Avina at 562-385-7048 or SAvina@ranchoresearch.org
If you’d like to learn more about the study, check out their website HERE.
