INOPASE Empowers and Supports People With Chronic Neurological Diseases to Improve Their Quality of Life: Munemasa Sugimoto, CEO

INOPASE, Inc is an innovative medical device company, dedicated to developing advanced solutions for chronic neurological diseases. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, with an additional office in Cheltenham, Australia, the company focuses on personalized, wireless-powered closed-loop neuromodulation technology. This approach aims to enhance symptom management and improve the quality of life for patients. INOPASE’s proprietary technology is designed to detect and respond to neurological signals in real-time, providing timely stimulation to prevent symptoms before they occur. The company's solutions target conditions such as drug-resistant epilepsy and urinary incontinence, offering patients tailored treatments that adapt to individual conditions for optimal effectiveness. 

In Conversation with Munemasa Sugimoto, Co-Founder & CEO of INOPASE, Inc

What inspired you to co-found INOPASE?

My journey began with a deep desire to address the unmet needs in neurological disease treatment. During my time at the University of Tokyo's Biodesign program, I observed the limitations of existing therapies. This experience motivated me to develop innovative solutions that could offer more effective and personalized treatments for patients suffering from chronic neurological conditions.

Could you elaborate on the core technology behind INOPASE's neuromodulation devices?

Our technology centers around wireless-powered closed-loop neuromodulation. This means our devices can detect abnormal neurological activity in real-time and deliver precise electrical stimulation to prevent symptoms before they manifest. The wireless power aspect eliminates the need for bulky batteries, allowing for a more compact and patient-friendly design.

What are the primary neurological conditions that INOPASE aims to address with its technology?

We are focusing on conditions such as drug-resistant epilepsy and urinary incontinence. These disorders significantly impact patients' quality of life, and current treatment options often fall short. Our goal is to provide effective, personalized therapies that can adapt to each patient's unique condition.

How does INOPASE's approach differ from traditional neuromodulation therapies?

Traditional neuromodulation therapies often provide continuous or scheduled stimulation without real-time feedback. In contrast, our closed-loop system monitors the patient's neurological signals and delivers stimulation precisely when needed. This targeted approach enhances efficacy and reduces unnecessary stimulation, potentially minimizing side effects.

INOPASE has offices in both Japan and Australia. How does this international presence influence your operations?

Having a presence in both Japan and Australia allows us to leverage diverse resources and expertise. It facilitates collaboration with a broader range of researchers, clinicians, and industry partners, enabling us to accelerate development and navigate different regulatory landscapes effectively.

What challenges have you encountered in developing and implementing this advanced neuromodulation technology?

Developing such innovative technology comes with several challenges, including ensuring device miniaturization without compromising functionality, achieving reliable wireless power transfer, and conducting rigorous clinical validations to demonstrate safety and efficacy. Additionally, navigating the complex regulatory pathways in different countries requires careful planning and expertise.

Could you share insights into the research and development process at INOPASE?

Our R&D process is deeply rooted in collaboration and patient-centric design. We work closely with clinicians to understand the nuances of neurological disorders and incorporate patient feedback to ensure our devices meet real-world needs. Our team continuously iterates on our designs, utilizing both preclinical studies and clinical trials to refine our technology.

What strategies does INOPASE employ to stay ahead in the competitive medical device industry?

We prioritize innovation and agility. By encouraging creative problem-solving and staying abreast of the latest scientific advancements, we can rapidly adapt and integrate new findings into our technology. Additionally, building strong partnerships with academic institutions and healthcare providers helps us remain connected to the evolving needs of patients and clinicians.

How does your background in finance and consulting contribute to your role as CEO of a medical device company?

My experience in finance and consulting has been invaluable in strategic planning, resource allocation, and navigating the complex business aspects of the medical device industry. It allows me to effectively manage the company's growth while ensuring that our innovative pursuits are aligned with sustainable business practices.

What advice would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the medical technology field?

It's crucial to deeply understand the clinical needs and involve healthcare professionals early in the development process. Building a multidisciplinary team that combines technical expertise with business acumen is also essential. Most importantly, remain patient and persistent, as the journey from concept to market in the medical field is often long and challenging.

How does INOPASE engage with the medical community to ensure its devices meet clinical needs?

We actively collaborate with physicians, surgeons, and researchers throughout the development process. Their insights help us design devices that are not only technologically advanced but also practical and beneficial in clinical settings. Regular feedback sessions and clinical trials are integral to our approach.

What role does patient feedback play in the development of INOPASE's technologies?

Patient feedback is central to our development process. Understanding patients' experiences, challenges, and preferences allows us to tailor our devices to better meet their needs, ultimately leading to higher satisfaction and better health outcomes.

Could you discuss the importance of wireless power technology in your devices?

Wireless power technology is a game-changer for implantable devices. It eliminates the need for battery replacements, reducing the frequency of surgical interventions and associated risks. This advancement enhances patient comfort and convenience, making long-term therapy more sustainable.

How does INOPASE ensure the safety and reliability of its neuromodulation devices?

We adhere to stringent quality control measures and comply with international medical device standards. Our devices undergo rigorous testing, including bench tests, preclinical studies, and clinical trials, to ensure they perform safely and effectively before reaching patients.

What advancements do you anticipate in neuromodulation therapy, and how does INOPASE plan to contribute to its progress?

I believe neuromodulation therapy will become increasingly personalized and adaptive, moving away from one-size-fits-all solutions. INOPASE aims to be at the forefront of this evolution by providing technologies that not only manage symptoms but also address the underlying neurological dysfunctions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

Munemasa Sugimoto, Co-Founder & CEO, INOPASE, Inc

We prioritize innovation and agility. By encouraging creative problem-solving and staying abreast of the latest scientific advancements, we can rapidly adapt and integrate new findings into our technology.

Our devices undergo rigorous testing, including bench tests, preclinical studies, and clinical trials, to ensure they perform safely and effectively before reaching patients.