Neurizon Therapeutics (ASX:NUZ) said the Bellberry Human Research Ethics Committee approved its phase 1 study to develop the NUZ-001 oral liquid formulation as a potential treatment for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), according to a Wednesday filing with the Australian bourse.

ALS is a neurodegenerative disorder associated with progressive impairment in speech and swallowing function.

The phase 1 trial will enroll 32 healthy volunteers in Australia with the aim of generating safety and other data to guide formulation development and the broader program for NUZ-001, the company said.

The study is scheduled to start in the third quarter and be completed in the fourth quarter.

Neurizon Therapeutics shares gained 3% in recent Wednesday trade.