Alzamend Neuro Inc. (NASDAQ: ALZN) announced findings from a brain imaging study of its AL001 compound conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital. The study examined brain metabolite changes in six healthy subjects who received AL001 or lithium carbonate for two weeks.

The magnetic resonance spectroscopy analysis measured five brain metabolites across 18 brain regions. According to the company, AL001 reduced levels of myo-inositol in 17 of 18 brain regions compared to lithium carbonate's effect in 8 of 18 regions. Both compounds targeted myo-inositol reduction, which the company states is the intended mechanism for lithium-based treatments.

The study found that glutamate levels remained stable in 10 of 18 brain regions with AL001 treatment, while lithium carbonate appeared to affect glutamate across all measured regions. The company suggests this difference could indicate fewer side effects with AL001.

"Lithium carbonate has been a cornerstone of psychiatric treatment for over 55 years, but its harsh side effect profile has always limited how widely and how long it can be used," said Stephan Jackman, Chief Executive Officer of Alzamend. "These findings suggest AL001 may finally change that equation, delivering what lithium does best, without much of what makes it difficult to tolerate."

Alzamend stated the interpretations are based on qualitative review and require statistical confirmation in additional patient populations. The company is developing AL001 for treatment of Alzheimer's disease, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. A confirmatory study is currently underway.