Researchers at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) say they have developed a world-first nasal spray that delivers neurotherapeutic powder directly to the brain as first aid for ischemic stroke patients, with clinical trials expected by 2030.

The treatment is intended for initial use by paramedics, before being rolled out to high-risk groups in care facilities and eventually the general public through pharmacies.

It was developed by the Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine at HKU and the university’s Advanced Biomedical Instrumentation Centre.

The medicine, known as NanoPowder, is designed to reduce brain damage by more than 80 per cent and improve stroke survival rates.

The innovation won the Special Grand Prize and a gold medal at the 51st International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva this year.

“We use ‘nano-in-micron’ technology to bypass the blood-brain barrier, a natural shield that typically blocks most drugs from entering the brain,” said Aviva Chow Shing-fung, a professor with the department of pharmacology and pharmacy, who led the research team.

“By using the nose-to-brain pathway, the treatment delivers medication directly to target areas, eliminating the need for surgery or injections.”