Evren Technologies has announced the launch of its Phoenix 100 system, a “state-of-the-art” transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulator (taVNS) research tool.
The Phoenix 100 system is intended to solve longstanding challenges faced by researchers in the realm of VNS, as—according to a company press release—current research tools are generally large, immobile or lack the flexibility required to conduct high-quality clinical research.
Evren’s novel system provides a compact, versatile and programmable system tailored to the needs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) patients and other indications that may benefit from non-invasive VNS research or treatment.
“The launch of our Phoenix 100 system to the research community marks a critical milestone in our journey, further building upon our reputation in the rapidly growing field of bioelectronic medicine,” said Weaver Gaines, chairman and CEO of Evren. “It opens the door to the use of taVNS therapy for the 12 million patients suffering from PTSD in the USA and has resulted in our first product revenue.”
The Phoenix 100 system stimulates the vagus nerve via the ear’s pinna, downregulating the sympathetic nervous system to reduce stress response. As the auricular branch of the vagus nerve primarily contains afferent fibres—going towards the brain—this type of stimulation is hands-free and reduces the risk of side-effects, offering a significant advantage over cervical VNS devices, the release adds.
Designed specifically for VNS research, the Phoenix 100 system comprises a stimulator, a comfortable earpiece, and programming software. According to Evren, the system is the first to feature physiological monitoring to ensure stimulation quality; high-quality programmable stimulation with a wide range of amplitude and frequency choices; two calibration options; data logging; remote communication; and an adaptable home study capability. The adherence monitoring feature in the easy-to-use device ensures that patients are following clinical protocols at home as well.
“Many investigators close the discussion sections of their research with the sentiment ‘further research is needed to optimise stimulation parameters, establish standardised protocols, and understand VNS mechanisms of action’,” said Anne Favre, COO protem of Evren. “This is why now is the ideal time for the programmable Phoenix 100 system. This launch advances Evren’s mission to empower PTSD patients and improve their lives through non-invasive, portable neuromodulation products.”
