A person operates the Charco Neurotech CUE1 device

The Imperial College London Innovation Fund, UK, has invested £205,000 to support UK-based tech company Charco Neurotech in its development of a non-invasive medical device for people with Parkinson’s disease.

CUE1, a circular device that attaches to the sternum with medical adhesives, uses specialised vibration to help alleviate physical symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Initial user testing among people with the condition found that the device improved movement by an average of 16%, with testers reporting benefits for walking and fine motor tasks.

Lucy Jung, CEO and co-founder of Charco Neurotech, said: “We believe that CUE1 has the potential to significantly improve [Parkinson’s disease] symptoms through its unique controlled vibration technology. We are excited to continue our work on the device and we look forward to the outcome of our proposed clinical trials.”

Charco Neurotech will use the Imperial College investment to initiate a clinical trial and fund the device’s manufacture for a commercial launch this year.