GE HealthCare is set to partner with Novo Nordisk to advance the clinical and product development of peripheral focused ultrasound (PFUS), a non-invasive type of bioelectronic medicine.

As part of the collaboration to improve patient care, both companies will contribute their respective expertise in ultrasound medical technology as well as metabolic disease treatment and management for developing PFUS.

Using ultrasound, the PFUS solution activates the nervous system and regulates metabolic function in the body, which is useful for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Based on pre-clinical proof of concept and initial early-stage clinical research, PFUS was observed to impact glucose metabolism in diabetic people through personalised ultrasound stimulation of nerve pathways.

On validation with further clinical evidence, PFUS can also be used as a non-pharmacologic approach for normalising blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes patients.

GE HealthCare Ultrasound president and CEO Roland Rott said: “In an era where diabetes is increasing around the globe, we are enthusiastic about the potential for ultrasound to help people live healthier lives.

“This collaboration with Novo Nordisk opens a path to evolve ultrasound from a means of screening and diagnosis into therapy as well.

“We are eager to validate and further develop this potentially groundbreaking science as we strive to offer patients alternative treatment options for chronic diseases.”

Additional terms of the agreement have not been disclosed.