The future of treating brain diseases could lie in non-invasive technologies, according to Chongqing Haifu Medical Technology
3-MIN READ3-MIN ListenJulie ZhangPublished: 5:00pm, 19 Apr 2026Chinese biomedical companies deploying cutting-edge technologies are emerging as serious competitors to Western dominance in the race to treat Parkinson’s disease, in a market that could reach US$16 billion over the next decade.The firms are developing a range of approaches – from autologous cell therapies made from a patient’s own cells and ready-made cell products to gene therapies and non-invasive ultrasounds – although many of these candidates are still in early-stage trials.
The latest example is Shanghai start-up UniXell Biotechnology, which received clinical trial approval in China in 2024 and the US in 2025 for UX‑DA001, an autologous stem cell therapy that uses a patient’s own cells to replace the dopamine‑producing neurons destroyed by Parkinson’s disease.
Founded in 2021, UniXell has raised more than 300 million yuan (US$44 million) from A and A-plus financing rounds that drew support from state-backed funds, venture capital and pharmaceutical investor Tasly Pharmaceutical, the company announced in February.
